Fuchsia magellanica

Fuchsia magellanica is best planted in spring, from March to May. In regions with mild winters, planting in early autumn is also possible. Position it in partial shade or under light sun, sheltered from cold, drying winds, in a humus-rich, fertile, cool but well-drained soil. It does not tolerate soils that remain waterlogged in winter or soils that dry out quickly in summer. When planting, it is useful to bury the base of the stems by about 5 cm to better protect the stump from the cold. Once established, this fuchsia mainly requires consistent watering during the first two summers, and then only during dry periods. An application of well-rotted compost in spring suits it very well. Its hardiness is around -10 to -14°C at its peak, in a sheltered position, in well-drained soil and with good winter mulching; in cold climates, the aerial parts may die back, but the stump often regrows in spring.

Container Cultivation
Container cultivation suits it well, provided you choose a sufficiently large, perforated container and a fertile substrate that retains some coolness but is draining. A good quality planting compost, enriched with organic matter, is suitable. In a container, the plant requires more attention than in the ground: watering should be regular from spring to the end of summer, without letting the rootball dry out completely, and a fertiliser for flowering plants can be applied during the growing season. In cold regions, the pot should be protected from severe frosts, or placed in a bright, frost-free location during winter. Repotting or top-dressing in spring helps maintain vigorous growth and flowering.