Between May and October, the Blue Potato Bush (botanically known as *Lycianthes rantonnetii* or *Solanum rantonnetii*) is usually a showstopper, covered in a sea of deep blue or crisp white flowers. But let’s be honest—sometimes this little shrub can be a bit finicky and doesn’t always bloom as reliably as we’d like.
Why isn’t my Blue Potato Bush blooming?
If your bush is looking a little green and boring, it’s usually down to the wrong location or a hiccup in your care routine. One of the biggest culprits is often a mistake during pruning. It’s also possible you just need to be a little more patient; these plants generally don’t bloom in their very first year, so they might just need time to mature.
To get those gorgeous blossoms, your Potato Bush craves light and heat. It’s happiest in a spot with full sun. On the flip side, it really hates wind or drafty corners. You also need to keep it well-fed and hydrated—during the summer, that means frequent watering and a regular fertilizing schedule.
Can I get it to bloom again?
If the season is already well underway, it might be tough to force blooms this year unless you start your “rescue mission” very early. However, you can definitely set yourself up for success next season! Make sure to prune the shrub regularly, but don’t go overboard with a heavy hack-job. Water it daily and give it a boost with standard flower fertilizer about every two weeks.
Before the first frost hits, move your bush to a frost-free spot for the winter. Ideally, it should be somewhere moderately bright with temperatures between 40°F and 55°F (5°C to 12°C). Even during the winter, you’ll need to water it occasionally—just enough so the root ball doesn’t totally dry out. Don’t forget to let some fresh air in every now and then to prevent any fungal issues.
The Secret Sauce for Plenty of Blooms:
- Patience (it needs to reach a certain age)
- Plenty of light and warmth
- A spot protected from the wind (full sun is best!)
- Regular, moderate pruning
- Consistently moist soil (but no soggy feet!)
- Regular fertilizing during the growing season
- Generous watering in the summer
- A frost-free place to overwinter
Pro Tip: It can take a few years for a Blue Potato Bush to bloom for the first time. Until then, just keep giving it plenty of TLC!
