Gentian is not a houseplant, but only thrives outdoors. Nevertheless, the perennials can certainly be grown in a bucket or balcony box. It is important to look for a location for the pot or box where gentian feels comfortable.
Can you grow gentian in a pot?
Gentian can be cultivated in pots by choosing a suitable outdoor location, nutritious, calcareous or acidic soil and sufficient water supply. In winter, gentian needs winter protection, but does not need to be moved indoors.
Prepare the pot properly
Small gentian varieties such as blue gentian look very nice in the balcony box. Varieties that grow taller are better planted in a container.
Make sure the drain hole in the planter is large enough. Only then can excess rainwater or irrigation water drain away. To be on the safe side, you should create a drainage layer in the bottom of the pot.
Fill in nutritious garden soil, which should be calcareous or more acidic depending on the gentian variety.
The gentian feels comfortable in this location
Enzian doesn't feel comfortable in the house. Place the pot or container in a sheltered area outdoors. It shouldn't be too warm or too windy. Gentian also only tolerates direct sun for a short time.
Good locations for potted gentian are:
- Terrace
- Balcony
- Exterior window sill
- Entrance area of the house
- Cool conservatory
How to care for gentian in a pot
Gentian in a pot needs to be watered regularly. Tap water is suitable for watering, even if it contains a lot of lime.
The roots must never dry out completely. But you shouldn't give too much water either, because gentian doesn't tolerate waterlogging any more than it tolerates drought.
Plant the gentian in fresh, nutritious soil every spring. Then fertilizing is not necessary. If the plants are taking care of themselves, they may just be missing a little lime.
It doesn't work without winter protection
The soil freezes much faster in the pot than in the garden. Although gentian is actually hardy, you should protect the pots from frost.
The gentian is not overwintered in the house, but is given a cover made of fleece (€34.00 on Amazon) or foil. You should also place the pot on Styrofoam or similar insulating material.
Tips & Tricks
Pests occur more frequently with gentian in pots than in the open field. Check the perennial regularly for aphids or spider mites. To protect against snails, you can place the pots on the terrace in a saucer with rough sand.
