Growing lungwort in pots may require a little extra effort, but it's definitely worth it! We're revealing the 5 essential factors you need to get right for healthy, thriving plants.
Lungwort, also known as pulmonaria, is a shade-loving spring-flowering perennial plant that can thrive as a houseplant with the right conditions. Originating from the cool, damp forests of Europe, lungwort prefers a part-shade spot in your yard, receiving at least three hours of sunlight. However, it can also be grown indoors with careful attention to its needs.
When growing lungwort in pots, it requires more attention than plants in the ground. A good example of a pot is a medium-to-large container, such as a 12-inch container for an individual plant or an 18-inch container for two plants. The container must have drainage holes in the bottom to prevent excess water from accumulating.
It is crucial to use a quality potting mix designed for pots. Avoid using garden soil, as it may contain harmful bacteria or fungi and sits too wet. Additionally, it is advisable not to use potting mixes with peat moss, as it can lower the pH away from the 7-8 that lungworts prefer.
Lungwort plants are hardy in US hardiness zones 3-9 and can reach six to 12 inches tall. They have delicate pink, blue, or white blooms in spring. To ensure healthy growth, regular watering and feeding are necessary. Lungwort plants prefer soil that is consistently moist, and may need deep watering at least once a week during summer. However, overwatering can impact their growth and lead to root rot.
When watering plants in containers, it is important to check the moisture level a few inches under the surface. Lungwort in pots prefers a part-shade spot in your yard, receiving at least three hours of sunlight. Too much sun can lead to leaf scorch and the plants to wilt.
Regular fertilizing is also essential for lungwort in pots. It is recommended to use diluted nitrogen-rich fertilizer, such as a mild liquid nitrogen fertilizer. A good example of a product to use for fertilizing lungwort in pots is Osmocote smart release plant food, available at Walmart. Lungwort in pots benefit from annual fertilizing with a balanced slow-release fertilizer.
In colder climates, lungwort in pots should be moved to a protected space for winter to prevent root damage. Never reuse potting soil, as it may be depleted of nutrients and harbor pests or diseases.
Although lungwort is not a conventional indoor plant, with the right conditions, it can grow successfully as a houseplant. However, it is essential to remember that lungworts are not necessarily suited for being put in terracotta pots, as these tend to dry out quickly.
In conclusion, with the right pot, potting mix, location, watering, and feeding schedule, lungwort can thrive as a houseplant. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the delicate pink, blue, or white blooms of this beautiful perennial in your home.
