indigo

Indigo (Indigofera kirilowii) is an evergreen perennial plant that is hardy in zones 6-9 and requires moist soil to thrive in. The plant enjoys partial shade and will require regular watering to keep the soil moist. Generally, about 1 inch of water every week is ideal. It is important to keep an eye on the soil, however, as the exact amount of water needed can vary with the local climate and the time of year. In the spring and summer months, when temperatures are warm and humidity is high, water needs may be higher than the recommended 1 inch per week. During periods of little to no precipitation, additional water may be needed. In the fall and winter months, water needs may decrease due to cooler temperatures and decreased evaporation. It is important to adjust watering frequency accordingly.

Indigo (Indigofera kirilowii) prefers partial sun to full sun, so it should be grown in locations that receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth. In hot regions, indigo plants should be partially shaded in the afternoon to keep the foliage from becoming scorched. Shade should come from taller plants or trees, not buildings. When grown in too much shade, indigo plants may struggle to bloom and produce their deep purple-blue flowers. Once established, indigo is quite tolerant of drought, making it an ideal choice for hot, dry regions.

Indigo (Indigofera kirilowii) requires pruning once a year usually in the early spring. Pruning should focus mainly on dead, diseased, overcrowded, and weak branches. Removing these branches before new growth begins will promote healthy and robust growth for the entire season. Furthermore, areas with excessive growth should also be carefully trimmed back. It is best to prune indigo in stages over the course of a few weeks. This will ensure that the plant is not pruned too drastically, which can compromise its health and vigor.