Nemesia

These are self-branching annuals and tender perennials that are found wild in South Africa. They grow 1 to 2 feet high and have lanceolate to linear leaves that grow up to 4 inches long. The flowers grow in 4-inch panicles. They are an inch across and pouched; they may be white, orange, yellow, rose-pink, scarlet, or crimson and they are often marked on the outside with a darker color. These plants are great for flower beds and for pots in the greenhouse for spring blooming.

Pot Cultivation

When Nemesis are ready to be planted outside, they should be set 6 inches apart in soil that has be dug over and improved with decayed manure or compost. They should have sun half the day or more when the weather is cool; more shade in warmer temperatures. This will extend the season.

Propagation

Seeds should be sown indoors at a 65-degree temperature, 8 to 10 weeks before they are to be planted outside. Keep them in continual darkness until they germinate and in cool temperatures (50-65 degrees) while they are growing. The seeds often sprout irregularly, so they should be sown thinly. As they become large enough they should be transplanted; if they are planted too thickly, it will be difficult to transfer the older seedlings without damaging the smaller ones. Don't cover the seeds too deeply; a thin sprinkling of fine soil is all that's needed. When they're old enough they can be transplanted outside. Nemesia will bloom in the winter if sown in late August. They should be sown in 5- or 6-inch pots that have a few crocks in the bottom and are filled within half an inch of the rims with loam and leaf mold and a bit of sand and decayed manure. Firm the compost a bit and water with a fine spray. Set several seeds in each pot and cover very lightly with soil. Cover with paper and keep shaded. When they are a good size, thin them to one in each pot. Give them a cool atmosphere and they will grow strong. Water them carefully until the pots are full of roots; the soil should be moistened when it's fairly dry.

VARIETIES

There are many named varieties, one of which is Blue Gem.