Easily germinated in a peat-based seedling mix. Seedlings thrive in this medium with adequate moisture and lighting, and then things tend...Read More to go wrong.
This plant appreciates sunlight, but where things begin to go awry is when temperatures rise above 80F (27C). It just doesn't seem to handle the heat well, especially if appreciable humidity is present. This appears to be too far removed from its native environment. Even Alpine plants fare better. This plant is better suited to cooler, drier regions where full sun comes without full heat.
In hot climates, this is one plant that is best container grown, probably fares better in a moist sandy loam rather than commercial peat mixes, and should be 'oversummered' indoors under good lighting.
Native to the high Andes where it is always harsh and little else grows. Sources did not agree as to whether it is annual, biennial or pe...Read Morerennial, but most said it matures in 8-10 months. Germinates in 5 days. Underground hypocotyl is nutritious staple. Wikipedia says it is often planted under potatoes to repel pests. Stephen Scott, co-owner of Underwood Gardens/Terroir Seeds, suggested trying this in clay or poor soil in the shade, as it prefers a cool climate. Have not grown this yet.
Easily germinated in a peat-based seedling mix. Seedlings thrive in this medium with adequate moisture and lighting, and then things tend...Read More
Native to the high Andes where it is always harsh and little else grows. Sources did not agree as to whether it is annual, biennial or pe...Read More