How to Help a Mandevilla Bloom With African Violet Food

Overview

Mandevilla is a tender, tropical vine that blooms with trumpet-shaped flowers, in shades of pink, yellow or white. Since the mandevilla cannot tolerate the cold, and is hardy to USDA zones 9 to 11, it is generally grown as a houseplant. Keep in mind that, if grown indoors, it will need to placed in an area that gets sunshine and temperatures above 65 degrees. Mandevilla blooms on new growth, so you may need to cut back the plant (usually one-third is sufficient) in February or March to stimulate the new growth from which it will bloom.

Step 1

Plan to start a feeding regime at the first sign of new growth on your mandevilla. You will need to fertilize the plant, bi-weekly, during the spring and summer. Look for buds or new foliage growth as a sign to give the plant its first feeding.

Step 2

Water the mandevilla plant until water comes out of the bottom of the pot. Allow all the excess water to drain.

Step 3

Allow the mandevilla plant to sit for one hour after watering to be sure that its roots have absorbed the moisture, and the soil is not waterlogged.

Step 4

Apply liquid African violet food, such as 8-14-9, according to the package directions.

Step 5

Fertilize again in two weeks, using the same procedure, and continue the applications on a bi-weekly basis throughout the spring and summer.