Ixora’s may require yearly fertilization to bloom, but once established, they bloom lavishly even on clipped hedges. From spring through fall, Ixora, a bushy shrub with thick clusters of red, orange, pink, or yellow flowers, blooms. Full light is preferred for blooms, although these delicate plants can handle a half-day of sun.
Ixora is grown on well-draining, slightly acidic soil in pots or beds. The foliage can develop chlorotic in alkaline soil (yellow leaves with green veins). Learn more about growing Ixora from seeds here. Also, find more information about growing Ixora from cuttings here.
If you believe the light and soil conditions are sufficient, you might apply a low-phosphorus fertilizer to the soil.
You might also water in Epsom salt sprinkled around the plants. This will aid the Ixora in absorbing the nutrients required for blossoming.
Ixora may be able to survive mild winters, but extra protection should be provided. Of course, the extent of the damage is determined by how low the temperature drops and for how long.
Ixora Blooming Tips
Ixora bud development will be inhibited under low light settings. Place the plant in full sun, where it will get at least six hours of sunlight every day.
The pH of the soil is a more prevalent cause of reduced blooms. Ixora flourishes with a pH of 5, which is slightly acidic and needs fertilization. Mix in 1/3 organic materials, such as compost, well-rotted manure, or peat moss, after planting. Organic materials will aid in lowering the pH of the soil. How to obtain Ixora blooms might be as simple as having the right soil pH.
It’s also important to have good drainage. As the organic waste rots into the soil, it will promote porosity and contribute nutrients to the area. Amending the soil to encourage Ixora blooms is an excellent initial step. Compost can be used as a top dressing, but it should be kept away from the trunk to avoid rot.f
In alkaline soil, iron and manganese shortages are widespread. Fertilization will be required if the area was not altered before planting. The first symptom when the soil is alkaline is leaf yellowing, followed by dwindling buds. These symptoms may be helped by chelated iron and manganese.
In alkaline soils, however, a foliar feed that the plant can take more readily may be required. Budding and flower development can be improved by spraying Ixora flowers with a liquid micro-nutrient spray.
Follow the manufacturer’s mixing and application directions, as with any product. It’s preferable to apply foliar sprays when the sun isn’t shining directly on the leaves, but it’s still early in the day so the spray may dry on the leaves. After fertilizing, thoroughly hydrate the root zone.
How do I increase my blooms?
Choose perennials that bloom for a long time. For more (and longer) blooms, deadhead your flowers. Fertilize your plants to ensure that they bloom for a longer period of time. Visit the garden center on a regular basis. Plant many different types of your favorite perennials.
Conclusion
Ixora blooms in full, direct sun for the majority of the day, although it also tolerates moderate shade in the warmest regions in its USDA zone. Water the plant once a week, or less during the winter, with a deep soaking, and keep the soil moist but not dripping wet.
