How to Grow Moss Rose (Portulaca)

Portulaca are gorgeous drought tolerant flowers capable of growing in almost every state in the USA as well as many parts of Canada.Growing from seed, proper growing conditions & planting are discussed.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Moss rose seed
• potting soil
• sun
• Containers

1. Moss Rose Seed Growing From Seed:
   Plant seed after all danger of frost is past. Cast the seed in an open flat filled with potting soil. Do not cover. Light helps the seed sprout. Water sparingly. The soil must be 70 -75 degrees F or 21-24 degrees C to crack the seed. If your seeds sprout & immediately wilt, it is due to "damping off disease"- a result of too wet soil.
2. Pelletized Time Release Fertilizer for Blooming Plants Growing From Young Plants:
   Early in the season you can purchase 6 packs of small moss rose (portulaca) plants. Often they are mixed varieties in a pack. Mix time release blooming fertilizer into your potting soil mix. Remember, to water after planting. They need to be kept fairly dry to thrive.
3. Moss Rose Mango Sundial Colors & varieties;
   Most often the seed moss rose comes in a mixed variety seed pack. Individual colors are also available .Most individual color moss rose are offered in starter packs. One of the new introductions is Sundial Mango- a large flowering peach colored variety.
4. Hanging Basket Moss Rose- Winner! Containers:
   Moss rose are terrific in hanging baskets requiring minimum watering. They also work well in strawberry baskets, cascading down on your patio or balcony. Any container you use MUST have good drainage. Standing water will cause them to rot.
5. Moss Rose Planting Landscape Challenge:
   Consider these colorful tough plants as a replacement for your curbside grass median strip. No mowing and tons of color-what more could you want?

Tips & Warnings

• Good drainage & low watering make these a landscaping home run!