Location requirements:
The Fairy Mirror loves the sun; you won't enjoy it in a shady spot. It also doesn't like rain. It's best to place the pot in a somewhat sheltered spot, such as under an overhanging roof.
Care:
Because of its vigorous growth, the Fairy Mirror requires a lot of water, at a comfortable temperature and free of lime—rainwater is best. When the top layer of soil, about 1 cm thick, has dried out, it needs more watering. It also appreciates a regular shower from a spray bottle. A light fertilization with compost is recommended. Don't forget to cut off faded heads immediately.
Reproduction:
The fairy mirror can be easily grown in a pot or box; preferably as early as March, so the flowers don't appear too late. After the seeds are sown, germination takes about two to three weeks at a temperature of 14 to 16 degrees Celsius, after which the temperature should be lowered slightly. Once the plants are a bit larger, they are grouped together in clumps. After the Ice Saints, the plants can then take their permanent place in the sun.
Varieties:
In this country, two varieties and their hybrids are mainly traded.
Nemesia 'strumosa': delicate, richly branched stems, flowers in all possible colors, often several colors on one plant
Nemesia 'fruticans': up to 60 cm high, blooms all summer
TEXT: Annette Henning
