Question
Dear Will,

My mom is not having much luck having her lipstick plants ( aeschynanthus lobbianus and aeschynanthus Mona Lisa) bloom. She also is wondering about pruning:  when and how much.  Would you have any recommendations? Thank you so much for your help!

Gratefully,
Patricia Gordon

Montreal  

Answer
Hi Patricia,

Lipstick plant needs lots of bright light all year round, although they also need protection from direct sun in the midday hours. It should be kept in a small pot. Keep temps warm, never below the mid 60's, even in winter.

Keep the soil evenly moist - too much or too little water will discourage blooms. Allow the top inch or two to dry before watering thoroughly in winter.

Finally, younger plants are better bloomers than older plants. Regular pruning will help keep them young. It will get leggy if it is not pruned regularly. The best time to prune is when there are no buds in formation. Prune the longest stems back to several inches above the soil. Remember, the new growth will start at the point that you cut back to, so you should cut back pretty far to produce fullness in the center of the plant.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC