Fuchsia ‘Fusion’

Pot up Fuchsia ‘Fusion’ using well drained compost such as John Innes No.3, and grow on in warm, frost-free conditions. Pinch out the growing tips while fuchsia plants are still small to promote bushier growth and more flowers. When plants are well grown and all risk of frost has passed, gradually acclimatise them to outdoor conditions over a 7 to 10 day period, before planting them in their final positions in patio containers and sunny or semi shaded borders. Choose a site where they are protected from cold winds over winter. Provide a sturdy support, such as a plant climbing frame or trellis, to support the long stems of climbing fuchsias as they grow.

Feed and water regularly throughout the growing season. Deadhead faded fuchsia flowers to encourage more blooms to be produced, and tie the stems to their supports with twine or soft plant ties. Apply a deep bark mulch around the base of hardy fuchsias in autumn to protect the roots from winter cold. Prune out the oldest stems in spring when the fresh buds begin to break, and reduce the remaining stems to restrict their vigorous growth to the available space.