How to Grow Bacopas
Low-growing Bacopa looks beautiful either as ground cover or with its long trailing stems
spilling over the edges of a container, smothered in masses of pink, blue or white flowers all
summer long. Very easy to grow in sun or partial shade, this versatile plant is a favourite for
pots and hanging baskets.
When your plants arrive
-
Unpack your plants immediately and check the compost to ensure it has not dried out in
transit. Water with a fine spray, or sit the plants in a tray of shallow water if the compost is
dry. -
Pot on plants as soon as possible (preferably within 24 hours) after they have had time to
settle.
Potting on and planting out
- Handle each plant by the plug root ball, rather than the stem to avoid damage.
-
Pot each plug into a 7.5cm (3in) pot using a good multi-purpose compost or a
container compost. -
Grow on for a few weeks in a greenhouse or a bright, frost-free place, but avoid
direct sunlight. -
Keep moist but do not over-water. If very cold weather is forecast, cover with a layer
of fleece. -
Once there is no more danger of frost, the plants can be moved to their permanent
position. -
Harden off your plants before planting them out by placing the pots outside during
the day and bringing them back in at night. After 7-10 days, the plants will be ready
to plant out.
How to care for bacopas
-
Plant in well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. When planting in a container,
use a good multi-purpose compost. - Water regularly during dry periods.
- Bacopa is not frost-hardy and is usually grown as an annual in the UK.
Pests and diseases
Bacopa may be prone to the following pests and diseases. Read more about how to control
common plant pests and diseases here.
Pests
- Aphids
Diseases
- Generally disease-free