Fuchsia plants produce exotic blossoms in the cool months of spring and fall. The tubular double flowers hang below the stems in brightly colored clusters. The plants are forgiving of a variety of climates, though diminished flowering occurs in areas that don’t quite meet their needs.
Step One
Temperature - Fuchsias flower best in the cooler temperatures of spring and fall. Daytime temperature ranges between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit lead to abundant blooming and healthy plant growth. Cooler night time temperatures between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit help prolong the flowering period. Higher temperatures in summer may cause the flowering to stop completely until temperatures drop below 76 degrees Fahrenheit in early fall.
Step Two
Moisture - Dry soil and air causes fuchsias to drop their flower buds, especially if these conditions occur during hotter periods. Mild humidity and moist soils help the fuchsias thrive. Fuchsias need supplemental irrigation in climates that receive very little natural moisture, especially if the dry periods coincide with the spring or fall flowering period. Fuchsias grown as potted indoor plants require weekly watering since they don't have the benefit of natural moisture in the soil.
Step Three
Sunlight - Fuchsias flower best when provided with full to partial sunlight. Fuchsias may not bloom well in areas that experience extended periods of overcast days during the flowering period. Planting fuchsias in an area that receives morning sun and afternoon shade may help prolong blooming by keeping the plants cooler in climates with hot summers. Areas with cool or mild summer experience the best flowering when the plants receive all-day sunlight.
Step Four
Frost Danger - Depending on the variety, fuchsias can survive winter temperatures as low as 26 degrees Fahrenheit without dying down. Even if the plants die back in the cold, the roots may survive and regrow if mulch is applied over the soil to help insulate them. Tender fuchsias cannot tolerate any frost so they are usually grown as potted plants in climates that experience freezing temperatures. Overwintering the pots indoors protects the plants from frost damage.