The Angel’s Trumpet (*Brugmansia*) is a stunning exotic beauty originally from South America. Because it loves the tropics, it’s best grown in containers here in the States so we can move it around. Finding the perfect “home base” for your pot is the secret to getting those massive, fragrant blooms.
Plenty of Sun, but Keep it Cool
Whether your specific variety hails from the chilly Andes or the humid Amazon basin, one thing is for sure: Angel’s Trumpets crave light. However, there’s a catch—they aren’t big fans of sweltering, stagnant heat. If the spot gets too hot, the soil in the pot will dry out faster than you can keep up with, and you’ll find yourself hauling the watering can out several times a day. To keep your plant happy and hydrated, look for a spot with bright, filtered light or partial shade.
Warm and Sheltered
The ideal location should be cozy and protected from harsh winds. These plants are very sensitive to the cold, so you’ll want to wait until late spring to move them outdoors. It’s also a smart move to keep your planters close to the house. Why? Because these beauties are “heavy feeders” and thirsty drinkers. You’ll be visiting them often to water and fertilize, so keep your supplies handy! To get the best results, I recommend having these on hand:
- Slow-release fertilizer
- Growth-boosting fertilizer
- Bloom booster for those iconic flowers
Setting Up the Winter Quarters
Since they come from warmer climates, Angel’s Trumpets are not frost-hardy. Once late fall hits and the temperatures drop, it’s time to bring them inside. Before you move them, give them a good pruning so they don’t take up the whole room! During their winter dormancy, they aren’t picky about light, but they do like to stay comfortable—aim for a room between 50°F and 68°F. You can bring them back out to the patio in May once the threat of night frost has totally passed.
