Growing malope, which is a somewhat underappreciated flower, brings color and charm to your garden. This annual plant, also known as Malope trifida, has large, trumpet-shaped blooms that can easily become a focal point in any garden or space.
If you want to grow malope but aren’t sure how then this guide will give you everything you need. From choosing the right variety to its watering needs you’ll find a comprehensive rundown of the steps to successful grow your own malope.
Introduction to Malope
Malope originates from the Mediterranean region. It belongs to the mallow family and comes in various shades of pink, purple and white.
It’s known for being very easy to grow which makes it a good choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Its hardy nature and minimal care requirements mean it’s a good starter plant for those dipping their toes or new to gardening and growing.
Choosing the Right Variety
There are a fair few varieties of malope. Choosing the right one that fits with the look of your garden is important. Here’s a closer look into the most popular varieties and their features to help you decide:
Malope trifida ‘Vulcan’
- Appearance: Deep crimson, velvety petals with a striking central eye.
- Height: Grows up to 3 feet tall.
- Ideal for: Bold color themes and creating a dramatic focal point in garden beds.
Malope trifida ‘Glacier Fruits’
- Appearance: A delightful mix of pink and white flowers, each with a subtle gradient.
- Height: Typically reaches 2.5 to 3 feet.
- Ideal for: Adding a soft, romantic touch to mixed borders and cottage gardens.
Malope trifida ‘Alba’
- Appearance: Pure white flowers offering a classic and elegant look.
- Height: Grows to about 2.5 feet.
- Ideal for: Creating a serene, monochromatic garden or blending with other colorful plants for contrast.
How to Choose
When selecting a malope variety consider the following factors:
- Color Scheme: Match the flower color to your garden’s existing palette.
- Height: Make sure the plant’s height suits your garden’s layout and doesn’t overshadow shorter plants.
- Climate Adaptability: Some varieties may perform better in specific climates so choose one that suits your conditions.
Preparing Your Garden
Soil Requirements
Malope prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Before planting it’s a good idea to test your soil to check that it meets these conditions. If needed then you can amend your soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Location
Choose a sunny spot in your garden. Malope thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. A south-facing location is often ideal.
Planting Malope
Sowing Seeds Indoors
Starting malope seeds indoors can give you a head start on the growing season. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Materials Needed
- Seed trays or small pots
- Seed starting mix
- Clear plastic covers or plastic wrap
- Watering can with a fine rose
- Labels and markers
Steps
- Fill Trays: Fill seed trays with a seed starting mix and make sure it’s lightly moistened.
- Sow Seeds: Sow seeds thinly on the surface and lightly cover with a thin layer of soil.
- Cover and Place: Cover trays with clear plastic to maintain humidity and place them in a warm location with indirect light.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Use a watering can with a fine rose to avoid disturbing the seeds.
- Germination: Seeds typically germinate in 7-14 days. Once seedlings appear remove the plastic cover and place them in a bright, indirect light location.
- Transplanting: When seedlings have a few true leaves and outdoor conditions are suitable harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week before transplanting.
Direct Sowing Outdoors
If you prefer direct sowing follow these steps:
Preparing the Site
- Timing: Sow seeds outdoors after the last frost when soil temperatures are consistently warm.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 12 inches and remove any weeds or debris.
- Sowing: Scatter seeds thinly over the soil surface and lightly cover with a thin layer of soil.
- Watering: Water gently to settle the seeds without washing them away. Keep the soil moist until seedlings emerge.
Transplanting Seedlings
Transplanting is essential for the success of your malope plants. This is how to do it:
- Timing: Transplant seedlings after the last frost when the risk of frost has passed.
- Spacing: Space plants about 12-18 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.
- Planting: Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball, place the seedling in the hole, and firm the soil around it. Water well after planting.
Caring for Malope
You won’t get healthy malope plants if you don’t water them properly. Here are some detailed tips:
Detailed Watering Instructions
- Initial Watering: After planting water thoroughly to help establish roots.
- Consistent Moisture: Maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during dry spells. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
- Morning Watering: Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
- Mulching: Apply mulch around the base of the plants to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
Fertilizing Schedule
Feeding malope plants the right way will improve their growth and flowering.
- Initial Feeding: At planting time use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer into the soil.
- Mid-Season Boost: Apply a liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Organic Options: Consider using compost tea or fish emulsion for an organic feeding alternative.
Pruning and Deadheading Techniques
Pruning and deadheading promote healthy growth and continuous blooming.
- Deadheading: Regularly remove spent blooms to encourage new flowers. Cut the stem just above the next set of leaves.
- Pinching: Pinch back the growing tips of young plants to promote bushier growth and more blooms.
- Pruning: Trim any leggy or damaged stems to maintain the plant’s shape and health.
Mulching
Applying a layer of mulch around your malope plants can help retain moisture, suppress weeds and keep the roots cool. Organic mulches like straw, compost, or shredded bark work well.
Pests and Diseases
Common Pests and Control Methods
While malope is relatively pest-resistant some pests may still pose a threat:
Aphids
- Identification: Small, green or black insects on new growth.
- Control: Spray with insecticidal soap or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
Slugs and Snails
- Identification: Slimy trails and holes in leaves.
- Control: Use slug pellets, beer traps or hand-pick at night.
Disease Prevention and Management
Preventing and managing diseases is crucial for healthy malope plants:
Powdery Mildew
- Symptoms: White, powdery spots on leaves and stems.
- Prevention: Have good air circulation, avoid overhead watering and apply a fungicide if necessary.
Root Rot
- Symptoms: Yellowing leaves, stunted growth and wilting.
- Prevention: Make sure you have well-drained soil and avoid overwatering.
Companion Planting
Malope can be paired with a variety of other plants to really add to your garden’s beauty and biodiversity. Consider planting it alongside:
- Lavender: Complements malope’s colors and attracts pollinators.
- Cosmos: Another easy-to-grow annual with a similar care regimen.
- Echinacea: Provides a contrasting flower shape and attracts beneficial insects.
Harvesting and Using Malope Flowers
Malope flowers can be cut and used in floral arrangements. For the best vase life cut the flowers early in the morning when they are fully open. Place them in water immediately and change the water every couple of days to keep them fresh.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Addressing Germination Problems
Improving germination rates can be challenging but manageable:
- Seed Freshness: Use fresh seeds from a reputable source.
- Soil Temperature: Maintain soil temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C) for optimal germination.
- Moisture Levels: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination period.
Solving Leggy Seedlings
Leggy seedlings can be strengthened with these techniques:
- Light: Seedlings should receive at least 14-16 hours of light daily. Supplement with grow lights if necessary.
- Spacing: Thin seedlings to reduce competition and improve air circulation.
- Temperature: Maintain a consistent temperature around 65-70°F (18-21°C) to prevent rapid, weak growth.
Managing Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves often indicate underlying issues.
- Watering: Adjust watering practices to avoid waterlogging. Ensure proper drainage.
- Nutrient Deficiency: Feed plants with a balanced fertilizer to address nutrient gaps.
- Pest and Disease Check: Inspect plants for signs of pests or diseases and treat accordingly.
Additional Tips for Successful Malope Cultivation
Seasonal Care Adjustments
Adapting your care routine to the seasons can improve plant health and flowering.
Spring
- Preparation: Prepare soil and start seeds indoors or sow directly outdoors.
- Watering and Mulching: Establish a consistent watering schedule and apply mulch.
Summer
- Maintenance: Continue regular watering, deadheading and monitoring for pests and diseases.
- Feeding: Provide a mid-season fertilizer boost.
Fall
- Seed Collection: Allow some flowers to go to seed for next year’s planting.
- Clean-Up: Remove dead plants and debris to prevent overwintering pests and diseases.
Observational Tips
Pay close attention to your plants and adjust care routines based on their responses:
- Growth Patterns: Note how plants respond to different watering and feeding schedules.
- Environmental Factors: Adjust care based on weather conditions, such as increasing watering during hot, dry periods.
- Pest and Disease Signs: Regularly inspect plants for early signs of pests and diseases, addressing issues promptly to prevent spread.
Experimenting with Garden Design
Malope can be a versatile addition to various garden designs:
- Mixed Borders: Combine malope with other annuals and perennials for a dynamic display.
- Themed Gardens: Use malope to create themed garden sections, such as a Mediterranean garden or a pollinator-friendly area.
- Containers: Grow malope in containers for a portable burst of color that can be moved to highlight different areas of your garden.