Cineraria maritime or silvery (Cineraria maritima) is a perennial evergreen low shrub culture with leaves of unusual shape and color, which give an openwork look and solemnity to the entire plant as a whole. Cineraria belongs to the Aster family and is widespread in the rocky regions of the African continent, as well as in the Mediterranean and on the island of Madagascar.
Distinctive features of the bush are highly branched shoots with a hard, sometimes lignified surface, pinnately dissected leaves with dense silvery pubescence, inflorescences - baskets of yellow flowers of small diameter and fruits - achenes. The average plant height is 40-50 cm. The flowering period of cineraria begins from the second year of life and lasts from the beginning of summer to the end of September. The shrub can be grown as an annual garden plant or as an indoor crop.
Care for seaside cineraria in the open field
Seaside cineraria is considered very unpretentious, but when growing it, it is desirable to observe a number of conditions for full growth and development, as well as to maintain high decorativeness.
Location and lighting
The culture feels great both in the sun and in partial shade. But in the presence of bright sunlight and an open area, its decorative effect is manifested in full force. Indoor cineraria is recommended to be grown on a windowsill with a southern direction. Here the plant will receive the maximum amount of sunlight possible at home.
Soil composition
The composition of the soil for the plant does not matter much. Experienced flower growers recommend using a universal soil mixture with a soil that is neutral in composition. But what must be observed is the presence of a full-fledged drainage layer and good air permeability and water permeability of the substrate.
Temperature
Silvery dry indoor air and high temperature have an adverse effect on indoor cineraria. Optimal conditions for the warm season are 15-20 degrees Celsius, during the winter cold - from 4 to 6 degrees. The plant may not survive a lower temperature. It is possible from October to March to transfer the bush to a cool room without negative indicators (for example, a cellar, basement or loggia).
Watering
Seaside cineraria as a garden plant can do without watering for a long time, since it has a deep root system, which can itself get water from the soil at great depths. Indoor cineraria cannot afford this, so watering must be carried out regularly and abundantly. Lack and excess of moisture in the soil equally negatively affects the plant. Frequent overflow of water can lead to rotting of the rhizome.
Fertilization
Nutrient dressings for silver cineraria are recommended to be applied regularly at intervals of 15-20 days. The most suitable are complex mineral fertilizers with a low nitrogen content.The most effective fertilizers are "AVA" and "Kristalon".
Transfer
Transplanting is carried out as needed, when the root part becomes cramped in the flower container. When pulling shoots in winter due to lack of light, it is recommended to use cuttings. Cuttings about 10 cm long are cut from long shoots, rooted and planted in separate pots in spring.
Reproduction methods
For propagation of seaside or silvery cineraria, cuttings and seeds can be used. Seeds are sown in early spring, and seedlings are transplanted into open ground in the last days of May.
Diseases and pests
A possible disease is leaf rust. It appears when the room temperature is high and the humidity level is high. It is very difficult to save the plant.
Possible pests are spider mites and aphids. Simple folk methods will not bring the desired result due to the strong pubescence of the leaves and stems. Only special insecticidal preparations intended for indoor and garden plants will come to the rescue.
