Peruvian Apple 'Shoo Fly' organic

$4.99
Vendor: Gaia
Type: Seeds
Availability: In Stock Pre order Out of stock
Description

Organic Peruvian Apple 'Shoo Fly' (Nicandra physalodes) from the seed company Gaia, an ornamental and repellent plant in the garden

Native to South America , the Peruvian Apple 'Shoo Fly' is an annual plant with dark green foliage and finely toothed leaves . Its bell-shaped flowers, a bright lavender blue , attract the eye throughout the summer. Known for its natural repellent effect against whiteflies and certain pests , it is often planted around vegetable gardens . Its rapid growth and ease of maintenance make it an ideal ally to protect other crops while bringing an aesthetic touch to the garden.

Spread : compact and bushy port
Plant height : 60 to 120 cm
Quantity per pack : ± 100 seeds
Companion plants : marigold, nasturtium, basil, borage, calendula, dill, chives, garlic, mint, sage
Enemy plants : tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, peppers, petunias, tobacco

Did you know?

Its name 'Shoo Fly' comes from its ancient use as a natural repellent against flies and other harmful insects . Although its insect repellent properties are known, it remains an ornamental plant to be handled with care , because all its parts are toxic if ingested .

Cultivation method

Sow indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost , maintaining a temperature between 70 and 85°F (21 and 29°C) . Transplant seedlings into the ground once all risk of frost has passed , spacing them 12 inches ( 30 cm) apart. Peruvian Apple prefers well-drained soil and a sunny location for abundant flowering .

Harvesting and storage

Harvest the stems once the lantern-shaped pods are well formed. Cut them early in the morning after the dew has evaporated to maximize their shelf life .

Storage : Place cut stems in water immediately after harvest . For dried arrangements , hang them upside down in a dark, dry, well-ventilated place. Store them out of direct light to preserve their color .

With its beautiful flowers , unique appearance and natural benefits for the garden, the Peruvian Apple 'Shoo Fly' is as useful as it is decorative !