Sun Parasol® Apricot Mandevilla

Where to Plant

• Sunlight: This Mandevilla thrives in full sun for at least six to eight hours each day to produce the most vibrant apricot blooms. While it can handle partial shade in the afternoon, you will notice fewer flowers and less intense color if it stays in the dark for too long.
• Soil: Use a high quality potting mix or well drained garden soil enriched with compost to keep the roots happy. If you have heavy clay that holds water like a sponge, mix in some coarse sand or organic matter to ensure the roots do not sit in soggy conditions.

Watering Requirements

During the first few weeks after planting, water your Sun Parasol® Apricot daily or every other day to help the root system get established. Once it is mature, this vine is quite drought tolerant, but inconsistent watering will cause the lower leaves to yellow and drop. Aim for a deep soak whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to keep the flowering consistent throughout the heat of summer.

Pruning Tips

Because this variety blooms on new growth, you should prune it in late winter or very early spring before the first buds appear. Think of it like a seasonal haircut; trimming back long or leggy stems encourages the plant to branch out, which leads to a much fuller vine with more flower sites. Always use sharp shears to make clean cuts just above a leaf node to promote healthy new stems.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, water soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to fuel its fast growth and constant blooming. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer, as this forces the plant to produce tender green leaves instead of preparing for cooler weather. Feeding it a bloom boosting formula high in phosphorus will yield the best results for those signature apricot flowers.