The cold is difficult for flowering plants in the Nairobi region because the persistent cloud blanket creates low light and low temperatures – in this area, daily temperatures of 16 degrees are considered low.

So let’s see what we might try:

Primulas: Most primulas popular at higher and lower latitudes do not perform well here. The Primula obconica is an exception. It is a perennial and prefers to flower in the cooler weather. This plant needs to be grown from seed and it produces a wide spectrum of colours including white to apricot, pink, red, pale and dark blue.

Streptocarpus: This plant is sometimes called the Cape Primrose because the first species discovered was found in South Africa’s Western Cape. Subsequently several other South Africa species were discovered which led plant breeders to try their hand at hybridizing. Today we can see the results in beautiful flowering varieties of many colours and patterns. New varieties continue to be produced and more have been launched this year. It is possible to grow the species from seed but the hybrids need plant material.

Begonias: Cooler weather does not suit the tuberous-rooted begonias, a variety with large, colourful double flowers. It is better to rest them at this time of year. Instead, concentrate on the rhizomatous varieties. In addition to their handsome foliage, they produce flowering stems making for an attractive display of leaves and blooms.

Columneas: These plants are members of the African Violets and the Cape Primrose family. Most have attractive pendulous stems with bright orange flowers. They are best suited to hanging baskets or in pots placed in a position so their foliage can hang over the edge of a shelf or table.

Gloxinia: The tuberous-rooted Siningia, as the Gloxinia are now called, can be rested at this time of year. But the rest can be managed so the plant blooms in August.

These are some ideas for you to try. Do be careful with watering. During the cooler months these plants need very little and too much will kill them.

Plants Galore Garden Centre
Directions: Use the Limuru Road from Muthaiga and continue past the Village Market and into Runda.  About 200 meters beyond the start of Runda take the murram track on the right hand side. There is a Plants Galore sign board. The Centre is 100 meters on the right past the bridge. Telephone: 0773 612589. Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.