How to grow Poor Man's Orchid in the UK
Schizanthus pinnatus
Poor Man's Orchid (Schizanthus pinnatus) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. Looks tropical but easy. Pinch out growing tip when 15cm for bushier plant. This guide covers when and how to sow Poor Man's Orchid, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Poor Man's Orchid
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar Sow | Apr | May | Jun Plant | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Any reasonable, moisture-retentive but free-draining soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Full sun for most; some tolerate light shade
- Sowing depth
- Surface to 1 cm (check light requirement)
- Spacing
- 15–30 cm apart
- Sowing
- Sow under cover late winter–spring, or direct after the last frost
- Growing
- Water regularly; pinch tips for bushier plants
- Harvest & upkeep
- Deadhead often to prolong flowering
- Watch for
- Slugs and snails on seedlings; aphids on soft growth
Companion planting for Poor Man's Orchid
No specific companion notes for this plant.
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Poor Man's Orchid FAQs
When should I sow Poor Man's Orchid in the UK?
In the UK, sow Poor Man's Orchid in March. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
How much sun does Poor Man's Orchid need?
Poor Man's Orchid prefers partial sun (3–6 hrs).
Is Poor Man's Orchid easy to grow?
Challenging. Looks tropical but easy. Pinch out growing tip when 15cm for bushier plant.