How to Grow Fuchsia Boliviana Alba
Fuchsia Boliviana 'Alba' is a tropical perennial shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall. It produces red-and-white hanging flowers and performs very well in containers or hanging baskets. Fuchsia plants prefer a cool climate, moist, fertile soil and indirect sunlight or shade. This particular variety of fuchsia is resistant to mites, but it can be susceptible to other pests. Fuchsia Boliviana 'Alba' is grown in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 through 11.
Grow fuchsia plants in a location with shade, partial sun or morning sun. Avoid areas with full and direct sunlight. Shaded fuchsia plants grow larger and produce more foliage, while plants with more sunlight are shorter and more compact.
Grow fuchsia plants in well-drained potting mix or soil with a pH level of 5.6 to 7.5. Space the plants between 6 to 8 inches apart. If planting in a container, select one that is at least 12 inches in diameter.
Water fuchsia plants regularly to keep the soil consistently moist. Check for moisture by sticking your finger into the soil about 1 inch deep. If the soil feels dry, water the plant deeply. Container plants may need water more often than plants in the ground.
Fertilize fuchsia plants with 16-16-16 water-soluble fertilizer once a week during watering throughout the spring and summer. Mix 1 tablespoon of fertilizer per gallon of water.
Remove wilted flowers and seeds to encourage new blooms.
Cut the fuchsia plant back by half during the winter using clean, sharp pruning shears. Make cuts as clean and smooth as possible. Cut at a 45-degree angle. Remove the cuttings and discard them.
Spray all parts of fuchsia plants thoroughly with insecticidal soap once a week if you see evidence of common pests such as mealybugs, whiteflies or aphids. Insecticidal soap works on direct contact with these soft-bodied insects. The fatty acids break down the cell membrane and kill the insects.
- Replenish container fuchsia plants every 2 or 3 years. Loosen the plant from the pot and shake off the soil. Trim the roots back to the size of the plant and place it back into the container. Refill the container with fresh potting mix.
Shelley Marie has been writing professionally since 2008 for online marketing and informational websites. Her areas of expertise include home, garden and health. She holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration and an associate degree in medical billing and insurance coding, both from Herzing University.