cinquefoil

Cinquefoil (Potentilla gracilis) is a hardy and low maintenance plant, so it does well with a regular schedule of watering. Water your cinquefoil regularly and consistently for best results. During the growing season (spring through summer in most regions), the soil should be kept evenly moist. As a guide, try providing the plant with 1-2 inches of water per week. During hotter weather, ensure that the soil does not become dry, and water if necessary. In cold climates, water cinquefoil less often in the winter and early spring. Check the soil regularly, and if it is dry to the touch, give the plant enough water until it drains out the bottom of the pot.

Cinquefoil (Potentilla gracilis) needs bright sunlight in order to grow and thrive. Direct sunlight for 6 to 8 hours a day is ideal for this plant species. It is best to place in a south-facing window or outdoors in a sun-filled area. If placed outdoors, it should be in an area with some partial shade during peak afternoon heat. Avoid locations that have too much shade as this will stunt the plant's growth. Cinquefoil should also receive some indirect light throughout the day, so it is best to rotate it or adjust it to ensure it receives even exposure.

Pruning for cinquefoil (Potentilla gracilis) is best done during the late summer or early autumn months. You should begin pruning the plant when it is 3 to 4 years old. Pruning should be fairly light, shaping the plant as desired and removing dead and diseased branches. Begin by cutting back some of the longest stems by 1/3, then selectively trimming the branches to create an even shape. In addition to trimming back dead and diseased branches, you can also cut back any stems that are growing in a less desirable direction. Pruning cinquefoil is an ongoing process; if ignored it will become too dense and overgrown. Therefore, it is beneficial to perform occasional maintenance pruning to keep the plant looking its best.