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Nipponanthemum


Question
My plant has not been flowering.  I do not want to throw them away.

Answer
OK, Rose. Let's figure out what's wrong here.

Living in New York State -- one of two venues where this perennial from Mainland China happens to sing through Summer with very little care -- I must admit there was never a problem growing these in the most neglected situations at my house.  Missouri's Kemper Center for Home Gardening points out why: It says this plant qualifies as Low Maintenance and performs best in Dry sites:

http://www.mobot.org/gardeninghelp/plantfinder/Plant.asp?code=I560

Its General Culture tips: 'Easily grown in average, dry, well-drained soil in full sun.  Tolerates light shade in hot climates.'

Once you get the hang of it, they recommend that you 'divide clumps every 2-3 years to maintain vigor.'  Pinching and removing flowers prolongs flowering and promotes stocky growth, which is no surprise.  They say this plant is 'Excellent for mid-borders as long as dry soil requirements can be met.'  Soil is usually on the slightly Acid side, below 6.5 pH.  Full Sun or Semi shade -- the same as you would provide Lilies, New England Asters, and Peonies -- are necessary.

Now, Rose, if you are being very careful about watering this plant, which is normal when you want it to thrive and bloom, you may in fact be over-watering it.  Take it easy with the watering can and don't fertilize -- instead, amend the Soil with Bone Meal.  If you pinch, STOP after July 1 -- this is the date I stop pinching anything that blooms in Autumn, or we all have to wait longer for the delayed blooms.

Tell me what here sounds like you might consider doing.  We'll figure out exactly what's wrong, and what's right.  These are worth keeping.  

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