foothill penstemon

Foothill penstemon (Penstemon heterophyllus 'Electric Blue') generally require 1-2 inches of water per week and need to be watered regularly. Water the foliage and ground deeply. Watering at least once or twice a week is ideal. Take into consideration, however, that if there is more heat or wind that more frequent watering may be necessary. In areas that receive little rain, make sure to water during the summer months. During the winter months, water only occasionally. For best results, water the plants at the root zone and keep plants well-watered but do not over water as this can cause root rot or pest infestations.

Foothill penstemon (Penstemon heterophyllus 'Electric Blue') should receive full sun during the day, or at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. During the summer when the days are longer, the plant should receive at least 8 hours of direct sunlight. In the winter, when the days are shorter, you may need to provide the plant with supplemental lighting or move it closer to a south-facing window in order to give it enough sunlight. Additionally, during the hottest months of the summer, it is beneficial to provide the plant with some afternoon shade to protect it from scorching temperatures.

Foothill penstemon needs to be pruned in early spring to maintain a bushier, healthier structure. Pruning should be light - it involves removing dead stems, spent flowers, and any leggy or crossing branches that interfere with the overall shape of the plant. Removing any damaged branches can help to reduce disease and pests. Be careful not to remove too much foliage - this will reduce the plant's vigor. Foothill penstemon also responds well to late-summer pruning to encourage blooming the following season. In late summer, remove any stalks that have finished blooming and trim away any overly large or ill-shaped branches. This type of pruning will keep the penetmon looking its best and help promote blooms for the next season.