Shaggy dwarf morning glory, also known as Convolvulus tricolor, is a beautiful flowering plant that can add a pop of color to any garden or container. However, it is important to note that this plant is not a true perennial. While it can technically live for more than one year, it is typically considered a short-lived perennial and is often discarded after a couple of years.
One of the reasons why shaggy dwarf morning glory is not a good permanent container plant is because its stems have a tendency to become woody over time. This can result in a less attractive appearance and fewer flowers. The plant may also become less vigorous and start to decline after a few years.
In my personal experience, I have found that shaggy dwarf morning glory tends to perform best when grown as an annual or biennial. It is a relatively fast-growing plant that produces an abundance of flowers during its peak season. However, as time goes on, the plant’s vigor and overall beauty may diminish.
When it comes to potting and repotting shaggy dwarf morning glory, it is generally recommended to start with a well-draining potting mix. This will help prevent waterlogged roots, which can lead to root rot and other issues. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and compost can work well for this purpose.
When repotting, it is important to choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one, allowing the plant’s roots to have room to grow. Gently loosen the root ball and carefully transfer the plant to the new pot, making sure to keep it at the same depth as it was originally planted.
To encourage healthy growth and flowering, it is important to provide shaggy dwarf morning glory with the appropriate care. This includes regular watering, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Additionally, the plant benefits from full sun to partial shade, so make sure to place it in a location that receives adequate sunlight.
In terms of fertilization, a balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied every two to three weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. However, be cautious not to overfertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production.
While shaggy dwarf morning glory can be a beautiful addition to a garden or container, it is important to understand that it is not a long-lived perennial. Its stems may become woody and its vigor may decline after a couple of years. Therefore, if you are looking for a permanent container plant, it may be best to consider other options.
