Boulder gardeners know that our climate can be both a blessing and a challenge. Bright sun, dry air, and sudden temperature swings make outdoor gardening exciting, but they can also make delicate plants a little nervous. That’s where growing fuchsia indoors becomes a wonderful solution.

Fuchsias are famous for their elegant hanging blossoms that look almost like tiny ballerinas in mid-spin. The classic pinks, purples, and reds seem designed by nature specifically to attract both hummingbirds and photographers. Indoors, they can thrive surprisingly well if we give them conditions similar to their native mountain forests in Central and South America.

Fuchsia in full bloom. Photo: Lenny “Lensworth” Frieling

The key is light without harsh sun. A bright window with filtered light works beautifully. Boulder’s intense sunlight can be a bit strong through glass, so a sheer curtain or a slight offset from the window often helps keep the plant comfortable.

Fuchsias prefer consistently moist soil but dislike soggy roots. In our dry Colorado air, you may find that they appreciate a little extra humidity. A small tray with pebbles and water beneath the pot can create a gentle micro-climate.

One added bonus for photographers: fuchsia flowers make outstanding close-up subjects. Their drooping blossoms naturally isolate themselves from the background, and the vivid colors pop beautifully even in soft indoor light.

Fuchsia in full bloom. Photo: Lenny “Lensworth” Frieling

Sometimes the best garden in Boulder is the one growing right beside your camera. This macro shot is so sharp in part, I think for two reasons. One, the ISO (think film speed or sensitivity to light) is low. Low is below 400 tops. Also, it is “full frame” and not cropped. The more you crop, the more noise in the picture.  I must have been pretty steady because the shutter speed was low at 1/60. All that aside, spring is close on the heels of summer! Tomorrow is “move the stuff on the patio to clear my photo area” and more important, fill the bird feeders again.  We’ve been putting out food all winter, but the flickers want suet and are leaving nasty notes pinned to the metal plate put on the side of the house just for their drumming amusement.