Growing
Salvia Is A Broad-Ranging Genus, But These Tips Can Help You Grow Them Successfully
IN THIS GUIDE Overview Why Grow Salvias? How To Grow Salvia Salvia Plant Care References Whether you are cultivating an edible landscape, or a purely ornamental one, Salvias can be good choices for many gardens. From well-known culinary sage, to pretty flowering salvias in a range of colours, this genus provides many options for UK gardeners. For these salvia guides, we’ve partnered with: Lyndi Garnett – Coordinator of the Victorian Salvia Study Group. Vicki Weston – Owner of Weston’s Salvias. “Salvias are versatile plants that are generally easy to grow in most soils,” says Lyndi. “They have long-flowering times and come in a variety of colours.” This is such a broad-ranging genus that there is no way to cover them all in just one guide. However, to help you get started with choosing Salvias, we’ve developed this exploration of some of the different types of Salvia you might like to grow, along with some care and growing tips to help you cultivate them successfully. Overview Botanical Name Salvia Common Name(s) Sage Plant Type Perennials / Annuals Native Area Americas, China, Europe Hardiness Rating H3-H7 Foliage Various Flowers Many colours When To Sow May, August, September Flowering Months June, July, August, September, October When To Prune March, April, September, October, November Salvia actually belongs to the Lamiaceae (Mint) family.1 Commonly referred to as ‘sage’, this is one of a number of genera referred to in this way. S. officinalis It includes the common culinary herb sage, as well as a range of other edible and ornamental types. Why Grow Salvias? “I cannot walk past salvias without buying one,” shares Kate Gould, award-winning garden designer. “I don’t know why. I make a beeline for them whenever I’m in a garden – they’re my kryptonite.” Here are some reasons that you might grow salvia. Edible Yields Salvias might provide an edible yield – and choosing those which do provide something of value to you can help you make the most of the space available to you. Whether or not they are useful to human gardeners – all salvias can be beneficial for wildlife with which you share your space. Wildlife Benefits Salvias have beautiful blooms that are beloved by a range of key pollinators like bees, lepidoptera and other beneficial insects. They often also bloom over a relatively long period. Of course, since they attract pollinators and boost biodiversity, bringing wildlife also brings value for you, as a gardener – greater biodiversity brings greater stability, making your garden more resilient. This makes it easier to garden in an organic, eco-friendly way – and of course ensuring there are plenty of pollinators around can ensure good yields of fruits etc. that you cultivate in your garden. Long Blooming Period There is of course a lot of variety, though most Salvia will bloom between June and October. Choosing several different varieties could mean that there is plenty of nectar around for insects to enjoy in your garden throughout the summer and, with certain varieties, well into the autumn too. S. nemorosa The blooming period of salvias also means they add visual appeal in a garden over a long period. “The flowering period can vary from a few weeks to all year round,” says Lyndi. Pest Resistance Salvias are relatively easy to grow, and are usually seldom bothered by problems with pests or diseases. This can make them good choices (especially hardy varieties) for a low-maintenance garden that won’t take much work. How To Grow Salvia All Salvia will tend to do well in full sun, and will thrive with a south-facing aspect, but there are also several types that can cope with dappled or partial shade. Soil Requirements In terms of soil type, there are Salvia suited to a range of conditions, though they will do best in free-draining conditions and most will struggle in areas with heavy clay. “If you live on a heavy, cold clay, you must incorporate lots of grit into your planting hole,” says Vicki. Many varieties can cope with drought, so can be part of xeriscaping plans, and will cope quite well in free-draining soils even when they are poor and relatively low in nutrients. Where To Grow Salvias can be useful plants not only in poor soils and dry areas – they can also be useful in coastal gardens, and other situations that can be tricky for many other plants. “Some salvias like the shade, others prefer the sun, so you can usually find a salvia for any position in the garden,” Lyndi says. In terms of aesthetics, Salvia can work well in many garden schemes, from the sunny fringes of a naturalistic woodland or forest garden, to a kitchen or herb garden, to gardens with an exotic, or tropical, feel. They can also look good in-amongst wildflowers and ornamental grasses in a sunny border. However, though some hardy varieties can remain in the garden over the winter months, it is important to recognise that tender types are best grown in containers. Growing tender Salvias in pots means that you will easily be able to move them under cover before the first frosts in your area. Salvia Plant Care How much and exactly what care they will need depends on which varieties you have chosen to grow. However, generally speaking, these are relatively low-maintenance and hassle-free plants. Watering Under-watering is usually less of a problem with Salvias than over-watering, especially where drainage is less than optional – so less is usually more. “Water until established and when we have one of our seemingly much more frequent overheating summer moments,” says Vicki. Feeding Salvias grown in the ground will typically not require any feeding at all, but Lyndi does recommend mulching: “You can regularly feed your salvias to keep them healthy. If they’re growing in the ground, mulch well to keep the root area cool.” However, if you grow them in containers, it could be a good idea to feed a potash-rich ‘tomato feed’ type organic liquid fertiliser in the summer months. Composting Annuals If you are growing annual varietals, at the end of the season you will lift them and put them on your compost heap prior to the first frost. References 1. Salvia. (n.d.). Kew Royal Botanic Gardens. Retrieved March 24, 2023, from https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30000096-2
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Grow Lunaria (AKA 'Honesty Plant') For A Low-Maintenance Option In Difficult Areas
IN THIS GUIDE Overview Lunaria Types Why Grow Lunaria? How To Grow Lunaria Ongoing Plant Care References Lunaria is a flowering plant that in the language of flowers represents honesty, sincerity and prosperity. Honesty is a useful and interesting plant that can find a place in many gardens. There are actually two different plants called honesty: one is annual (or biennial) honesty – Lunaria annua, and the other is perennial honesty – Lunaria rediviva. In this guide, we will discuss both of these plants. By the end of this guide, you should have a much better idea about which, if either, of these useful and attractive plants might be a good choice for your garden. Overview Botanical Name Lunaria Common Name(s) Honesty Plant Plant Type Annual / Perennial Flower Native Area Europe, North America Foliage Triangular-ovate leaves Flowers Purple 4-petalled flowers, followed by silvery seed cases When To Sow March, April, May, June, September, October Flowering Months May, June Lunaria is a genus of flowering plants that are actually in the Brassicaceae family – this is the family that also includes the edible brassicas that we might find in a vegetable garden, such as cabbage, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, kohlrabi, turnips, mustard etc.1 This genus actually includes four species, two of which are interesting for UK gardeners. The other two, that we will not be covering in this guide, are L. elongata and the rare Balkan species L. telekiana. Lunaria means ‘like the moon’ – a name which refers to the decorative seed pods of these plants. The disc-shaped, silvery pods also explain many other common names for the plants, and its association with silver coins, or money. These plants are native to central and southern Europe and North America, but they are widely grown as ornamental plants in gardens, and have become naturalised in many temperate climate zones outside their native range.2 Lunaria Types Annual Honesty Botanical Name: Lunaria annua Annual or biennial honesty is an attractive garden plant that grows up to around 90cm tall with a spread of around 30cm. It has coarse, pointed-oval shaped, hairy leaves with marked serrations along the edges. In the spring and summer, the plants bear racemes of white or violet flowers which are followed by showy green-light brown translucent disc-shaped silicles (not botanically speaking seedpods though they are often referred to as such). Once ripe and dry, seeds fall from these silicles leaving a silvery membrane that can sometimes persist on the plants throughout the winter. The name ‘honesty’ emerged in the sixteenth century and it is believed to relate to the translucence of the silicle membranes.3 In the US it is commonly called ‘Silver Dollars’. In French, ‘monnaie du pape’ meaning ‘Pope’s Money’. In Denmark and Dutch-speaking countries as ‘Coins of Judas’. Perennial Honesty Botanical Name: Lunaria rediviva Perennial honesty is another popular garden plant. It grows up to 1m in height and has large, pointed oval-shaped leaves with marked serrations, similar to the above. It has clusters of fragrant, pale pink flowers that are borne in the spring. Rather than having circular silicles, this plant has longer pods that taper to points at both ends. But these pods, like those of the above, have a bright whitish-silver appearance that can have great ornamental appeal. Like other perennial plants, L. rediviva is a great option for those who want to create long-lasting gardens that won’t require a lot of work, since it will come back and flower over a number of years. Why Grow Lunaria? Wildlife Benefits L. annua and L. rediviva are both very useful wildlife-friendly plants and are considered to be excellent choices for wildflower meadow-type planting schemes and wildlife gardens. This not only has ecological benefits, but can also aid those trying to grow their own. Since increasing biodiversity helps keep the ecosystem in balance and aids in organic pest control. These are great plants for attracting lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) and other pollinators. It is caterpillar food for the caterpillars of the orange tip butterfly, for example. Ornamental Reasons The plants are both also great ornamental choices. They add interest not only during the flowering period but also beyond, as the attractive silicles form. What is more, the dried seed pods are also very attractive in floral arrangements, and are often used in cut flower displays. They could also therefore be good choices to add to a cut flower garden. Edible Yield L. annua can also be interesting for those cultivating an edible garden. The seeds have a strong and pungent flavour and are used as a mustard substitute. The root of the plant is sometimes also cultivated and eaten. Low Maintenance L. rediviva is a tough perennial, and a great choice for low-maintenance gardens. Like other perennial plants, it can be a good choice for low-maintenance wildflower meadows or perennial beds or borders, and can be suitable for areas of a garden where other forms of ground cover may be difficult to establish. Trap Crops Another thing to consider is that, as members of the Brassicaceae family, these plants may be beneficial in an organic garden as trap crops – distracting pests that prey on edible brassicas and thereby providing a distraction to help in keeping culinary crops safe. Unless seeds are collected, both of these plants will often self-seed readily. How To Grow Lunaria The plants can cope with an exposed location, but if you want to retain the attractive silvery membranes on the plants for as long as possible then they are best grown in a more sheltered spot. One thing to note if you plan to incorporate this plant into a kitchen garden is that it should not be grown in the same bed as brassicas, and annual brassicas should be rotated in a crop rotation scheme. Honesty works well in a spring woodland border and can be great when grown alongside tulips or other spring flowering bulbs. “I love to establish swathes of white and pale colour flowered Lunaria under the dappled shade of a tree, as there is something mesmerising in the way the broken sunlight through a fresh spring canopy catches these flowers,” shares Master Horticulturist Dan Ori. They also work well alongside Alliums, geraniums and forget-me-nots, for example. It can also look good amongst naturalistic meadow planting schemes with grasses and native wildflowers. Ongoing Plant Care Lunaria are great low-maintenance plants and really do require very little care. Give them a little water if the weather it particularly dry. But generally, you can leave them to get on with things and focus on more fussy plants. The one thing to make sure of is that the Lunaria do not have ‘wet feet’ – waterlogging is one problem that they cannot abide. Like common edible brassicas, this plant can be affected by club root. Other than that, they will not usually encounter many problems – in fact, they can be so low maintenance that in some areas, they can even start to be considered as a weed! However, as it is generally untroubled by pests, you will find that both types of Lunaria can be very useful and attractive additions to your garden. If you do not already grow Lunaria in your garden, it is certainly a good option to consider. Honesty is something to cultivate in all areas of life – including in your garden! References 1. Todd, J. (n.d.). Lunaria annua. Oxford University Plants. Retrieved March 21, 2023, from https://herbaria.plants.ox.ac.uk/bol/plants400/Profiles/kl/Lunaria 2. Lunaria annua. (n.d.). Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved March 21, 2023, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278072 3. The Brassica family and their useful plants; (2022, July 3). Wonderful Weed Weekly. Retrieved March 21, 2023, from https://wonderfulweedweekly.co.uk/the-brassica-family-and-their-useful-plants-part-3/
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Here's 30 Perennial Flowers That Grow Well In Shade According To Horticulturists
IN THIS GUIDE Deep Or Partial Shade? Damp Or Dry Shade? Shady Perennials That Bloom In Spring Shady Perennials That Bloom in Summer Shady Perennials That Bloom In Autumn Shady Perennials That Bloom In Winter Tips When Choosing Perennials For Shade Patterns & Colour Scheme Benefitting Wildlife References In any garden, one key thing essential to success is choosing the right plants for the right places. The best perennial flowers that grow in shade are not the same as those that will grow best in full sun, for example. First of all, you need to think about what type of shade you are looking at. Deep Or Partial Shade? You might be looking for perennial flowers that will do well in deep shade, in a north-facing border for example. Or you might be looking for perennial flowers that will bloom in partial shade, or in the dappled shade below trees and shrubs. The type of shade in the location where the flowers will be planted is important. Damp Or Dry Shade? Another factor is whether you are looking at damp shade, or dry shade, since the moisture content of the soil will also be important in determining which plants are right for you. Of course, other characteristics of the soil will also come into play. You should think about soil type, and whether it is moisture retentive and fertile, or particularly free draining. Soil pH is another important factor to consider. In this article, we will explore how to choose the best perennial flowers for the shady sight in question, then go on to discuss thirty potential options that bloom throughout the different seasons of the year. Shady Perennials That Bloom In Spring Let’s begin then, by looking at some of the excellent options to consider for spring. These perennial flowering plants are all excellent choices for some colour and interest in the springtime months: 1) Aquilegia ALSO KNOWN AS: COLUMBINE SUNLIGHT: PARTIAL OR DAPPLED SHADE SOIL: RICH, MOIST, FREE-DRAINING (NOT TOO WET OR DRY) 2) Bergenia ALSO KNOWN AS: ELEPHANT’S EARS SUNLIGHT: FULL OR PARTIAL SHADE SOIL: MOIST, WELL-DRAINING 3) Brunnera ALSO KNOWN AS: SIBERIAN BUGLOSS SUNLIGHT: FULL OR PART SHADE SOIL: MOIST BUT WELL-DRAINING 4) Daffodils ALSO KNOWN AS: NARCISSUS SUNLIGHT: LIGHT OR DAPPLED SHADE SOIL: WELL-DRAINED 5) Lamium ALSO KNOWN AS: DEAD NETTLES SUNLIGHT: FULL OR PART SHADE SOIL: MOIST, FREE-DRAINING 6) Primroses ALSO KNOWN AS: PRIMULA SUNLIGHT: PARTIAL OR DAPPLED SHADE SOIL: MOIST, WELL-DRAINED 7) Pulmonaria ALSO KNOWN AS: COMMON LUNGWORT SUNLIGHT: PART OR FULL SHADE SOIL: MOIST, WELL-DRAINED SOIL Shady Perennials That Bloom in Summer Next, let’s take a look at some of the best perennial flowers for shade that will bloom during the summer months: 8) Acanthus mollis ALSO KNOWN AS: BEAR’S BREECHES SUNLIGHT: PART OR FULL SHADE SOIL: WELL-DRAINED 9) Alchemilla mollis ALSO KNOWN AS: LADY’S MANTLE SUNLIGHT: FULL OR PART SHADE SOIL: MOIST, FREE-DRAINING 10) Astrantia maxima ALSO KNOWN AS: LARGEST MASTERWORT SUNLIGHT: FULL OR PART SHADE SOIL: MOIST BUT FREE-DRAINING OR POORLY DRAINED AREAS 11) Beesia calthifolia Meneerke bloem, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons1 ALSO KNOWN AS: MARIGOLD-LEAVED BEESIA SUNLIGHT: PART SHADE SOIL: GOOD QUALITY, MOIST BUT WELL-DRAINED LOAM 12) Campanula persicifolia ALSO KNOWN AS: PEACH-LEAVED BELLFLOWER SUNLIGHT: PART OR DAPPLED SHADE SOIL: MOIST, WELL-DRAINED (NOT TOO WET OR DRY) 13) Comfrey ALSO KNOWN AS: Symphytum officinale SUNLIGHT: ANY SOIL: MOST CONDITIONS 14) Hostas ALSO KNOWN AS: PLANTAIN LILY SUNLIGHT: FULL OR PART SHADE SOIL: MOIST 15) Hydrangea anomala ALSO KNOWN AS: JAPANESE CLIMBING HYDRANGEA SUNLIGHT: FULL OR PART SHADE SOIL: WELL-DRAINING, NEUTRAL TO ACIDIC 16) Geraniums ALSO KNOWN AS: CRANESBILL SUNLIGHT: PART OR DAPPLED SHADE SOIL: MOIST, FREE-DRAINING 17) Malva ALSO KNOWN AS: COMMON MALLOW SUNLIGHT: PART OR DAPPLED SHADE SOIL: MOIST, FREE-DRAINING 18) Meconopsis baileyi ALSO KNOWN AS: HIMALAYAN BLUE POPPY SUNLIGHT: PART SHADE SOIL: MOIST, FREE-DRAINING, NEUTRAL TO ACIDIC Shady Perennials That Bloom In Autumn As summer fades, there may be fewer blooms in your shade garden. But here are perennial flowers for shade that will provide blooms into the autumn months: 19) Caryopteris x clandonensis ALSO KNOWN AS: BLUE MIST BUSH SUNLIGHT: LIGHT OR DAPPLED SHADE SOIL: ANY 20) Colchicum autumnale ALSO KNOWN AS: AUTUMN CROCUS SUNLIGHT: LIGHT OR DAPPLED SHADE SOIL: WELL-DRAINING 21) Corydalis ALSO KNOWN AS: BLUE CORYDALIS SUNLIGHT: PART SHADE SOIL: MOIST, FREE-DRAINING 22) Saxifraga fortunei ALSO KNOWN AS: FORTUNE SAXIFRAGE SUNLIGHT: FULL OR PART SHADE SOIL: MOIST, WELL-DRAINED 23) Tradescantia ALSO KNOWN AS: SPIDERWORT SUNLIGHT: FULL OR PART SHADE SOIL: MOIST, WELL-DRAINED Shady Perennials That Bloom In Winter Finally, even in winter, there are perennial flowers that will bloom – even in shady spots. Here are some interesting options to consider: 24) Chaenomeles ALSO KNOWN AS: JAPANESE QUINCE / FLOWERING QUINCE SUNLIGHT: PARTIAL OR DAPPLED SHADE SOIL: MOIST, FREE-DRAINING 25) Chionodoxa ALSO KNOWN AS: GLORY OF THE SNOW SUNLIGHT: DAPPLED SHADE (WORKS WELL BENEATH TREES) SOIL: ANY 26) Hellebore ALSO KNOWN AS: LENTEN ROSE SUNLIGHT: PARTIAL OR DAPPLED SHADE SOIL: MOIST, WELL-DRAINED, NEUTRAL TO ALKALINE 27) Mahonia ALSO KNOWN AS: WINTER SUN SUNLIGHT: DAPPLED OR DEEP SHADE SOIL: ANY 28) Snowdrops ALSO KNOWN AS: GALANTHUS SUNLIGHT: PART SHADE SOIL: MOIST 29) Winter aconites ALSO KNOWN AS: ERANTHIS HYEMALIS SUNLIGHT: PARTIAL SHADE SOIL: MOIST, WELL-DRAINED 30) Witch hazel ALSO KNOWN AS: HAMAMELIS SUNLIGHT: LIGHT OR DAPPLED SHADE SOIL: WELL-DRAINED, NEUTRAL TO ACIDIC Tips When Choosing Perennials For Shade Before you choose perennial flowers for shade, there are a number of questions you need to ask yourself. Are you looking at deep shade, partial shade or dappled shade? What are the climate, microclimate and soil conditions like in your area? What other plants are already growing close by? This may determine not only which flowers will look good, but how well they will do. Certain plants may compete with one another in detrimental ways, while others will benefit one another. Looking at other plants could also give you clues about the environment that might help you in making your decisions. When creating any perennial planting scheme, it is best to start with observation, and an understanding of your site. The better you understand your garden, the better equipped you will be to make the right plant choices. It is also very important to consider your plan holistically – planning from the big picture down to the specifics. Patterns & Colour Scheme Begin with the patterns before drilling down to the details of which individual plants you will choose. It can be helpful to determine a colour scheme and general tone or feel for the design. Of course, this is important because it will help you work out whether plants will fit well within an ornamental scheme. It can also be a good idea to consider lighter, brighter flowers or foliage when planting up a more shaded area, as these will stand out better in lower light conditions. “I tend to use light flowered plants or bright blues in deeper shade as this allows the flowers to stand out,” shares Master Horticulturist Colin Skelly. “I also tend to use foliage with lighter splashes, such as Pulmonaria and Brunnera for the same reason.” Benefitting Wildlife But you should also think beyond aesthetics – You could consider the broader benefits that perennial flowers can bring. For example, they might be beneficial to the soil ecosystem and other plants growing nearby. They might attract pollinators or other beneficial wildlife to your garden. In order to make your garden as wildlife-friendly as possible, it is a good idea to choose plants so that you have flowers in bloom for as much of the year as possible. This means that nectar is available for insects all year round. There are, of course, many more options for perennial flowers for shade that might work well in your garden. But the above list should give you a place to start when choosing the right plants for the right places in your garden. References 1. Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported (CC BY-SA 3.0). (n.d.). Creative Commons. Retrieved March 21, 2023, from https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/
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How To Grow Ginger Under Cover In A Greenhouse, Polytunnel, Or Inside Your Home
IN THIS GUIDE Overview Why Grow Ginger? How To Grow Ginger Habitat & Growing Conditions Ginger Plant Care Even in the temperate UK climate, you can grow tropical plants like ginger at home. However, it is important to understand that ginger is not a plant that you can just pop in your outdoor garden. This is something you will have to grow under cover in a greenhouse or polytunnel, or inside your home. If you plan and prepare correctly, and take care of your plants with their needs in mind, you can succeed in growing ginger in the UK. “It can be great fun growing tropical crops in the UK, even if the harvest might dubiously justify the effort,” says Master Horticulturist Colin Skelly. “There are ornamental gingers but growing from a supermarket stem sounds like a great project to get children engaged with where their food comes from!” Overview Botanical Name Zingiber officinale Common Name(s) Ginger Plant Type Perennial / Houseplant Native Area Island South-East Asia Hardiness Rating H1A Foliage Slender pseudo-stems Flowers Purple flowers; uncommon to see these in UK cultivation When To Sow February, March Flowering Months October, November Ginger is a perennial herbaceous plant – Zingiber officinale. It is generally grown for its underground stems, or rhizome, which are used fresh, or ground to make a common dried spice. Interestingly, this is not a plant that is found in the wild – it is only found in cultivation. The plant grows to an eventual height of between 30-100cm. It forms slender pseudo-stems that are sometimes harvested for an additional yield known as stem ginger. Inflorescences of yellow and purple flowers form on shoots that rise separately from the rhizome, though these are rarely seen when the plants are grown in temperate climates. Why Grow Ginger? Ginger is a very useful cooking ingredient and spice that can be very useful in a wide range of different recipes. It is a food-producing plant that can be grown at home even by those without a garden. You can grow it in a container even in the smallest of spaces. How To Grow Ginger The end of winter is a good time to plant ginger in temperate climates like ours here in the UK, but you can give this a try at any time of year when you are growing ginger inside. Choosing Rhizomes Ginger is grown from rhizomes (commonly referred to as root sections). These can be bought online or sometimes from local plant nurseries. You may also be able to root fresh ginger that you have bought from the shops. It is worth noting that ginger for sale in supermarkets may have been treated to prevent shoots from forming. If this is the case, soaking the root in water for 24 hours prior to planting may help (by washing away treatments used to slow growth). When choosing a rhizome, note that the larger it is, the more quickly the ginger will be produced. You are looking for a rhizome with small nodules similar to the chits that appear on potatoes. New growth will form from these small growth buds. Container Growing Choose a rich and fertile, moist but free-draining growing medium and a container that will allow that growing medium to dry out well between waterings while still retaining some moisture for your plant. Remember, when choosing a suitable container, that you are growing ginger mostly for what lies beneath the surface. So a tall, narrow pot that allows roots to delve deeper as the above-ground plants grow is the best option. Place your ginger rhizome into a pot or container with the green growth buds popping out just above the surface of the growing medium. Habitat & Growing Conditions It is important to remember, when choosing where to place your ginger plants in containers, how and where ginger grows in a more natural environment. Ginger thrives in moist to wet tropic environments. It grows best where daytime temperatures of between 18-28°C are maintained – though it can also cope in temperatures as low as 12-13°C and as high as 35°C. It will tend to go dormant at temperatures lower than those of the optimal range. Though ginger may prefer a partially shaded spot in hotter climates, when grown in the UK it will do best when given as much sun as possible. In order to encourage ginger grown indoors in our climate to root successfully, it can be helpful to provide gentle bottom heat (from a heated propagator, or heat mat, for example). However, ginger will often root and shoot successfully when simply placed in a warm position on a sunny windowsill. Ginger plants require relatively high humidity – and this can be one of the biggest challenges when growing ginger indoors in a temperate climate. Since central heating can really dry out the air, it can be beneficial to place ginger in a location where the humidity remains somewhat higher, such as on a kitchen windowsill close to the kitchen sink, or in a light, bright bathroom. Ginger Plant Care It is important to make sure that the growing medium around your ginger stays moist, but does not become waterlogged. You should water well but ensure that the medium and container are free-draining. When growing indoors, it may also be necessary to mist your plants to increase humidity levels. As your ginger plant shoots and begins to grow, it will be important to pot it up regularly. If it is doing well, by midsummer (having been planted in late winter) it should be in a rather large container (such as a 20-litre pot or grow bag, for example).
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Grow Echium ‘Bugloss’ For Pollinators Says Professor Dave Goulson - Here's How
IN THIS GUIDE Overview How To Grow Echium Echium Plant Care Echium Varieties Common Problems References If you are looking for a plant that will make a real statement, then Echiums may be just what you are looking for. These striking plants come in an array of colours and vary in size and growing habit, meaning there is an echium for pretty much every garden style. From formal to the exotic, meadow to conservatory, these boastful, sun-loving plants provide beauty, structure and texture, and are sure to turn heads. A well-placed echium will offer a real taste of splendour to your garden and, thanks to their nectar-rich blooms, they are irresistible to butterflies and other essential pollinators, including the ever-dwindling honey bee. These bountiful beauties thrive in hot, dry conditions and, where many plants would struggle, echiums will remain completely unperturbed by sudden heatwaves in the summer months. With echiums’ tolerance of rising temperatures, you can at least rest in the knowledge that they are giving the bees some much-needed help. Overview Botanical Name Echium Common Name(s) Bugloss (Vipers Bugloss etc.) Plant Type Annual / Biennal Flower Native Area North Africa, Mainland Europe, Central Asia and the Macaronesian Islands Hardiness Rating Various Foliage Rough, hairy, oblanceolate leaves Flowers Blue/purple or pink/red flower spikes (depending on variety) When To Sow April, May Flowering Months June, July, August There are 68 species of echiums which includes biennials (which complete their life cycle in two years), perennials (which die down in winter) and shrubs (which provide year-round foliage). Echiums can be found in suitable climates worldwide with the tallest of the varieties, which can grow up to 5m in height, hailing from the Canary Islands.1 These varieties need to grow in similar conditions that the islands provide but they also self-seed prolifically and will quite happily colonise your garden if given the opportunity. How To Grow Echium From the varieties above you have probably gathered that they require moist, well-drained soil and a sheltered sunny site when it comes to planting. “Echium vulgare and E. amoenum are hardy in most UK conditions but E. pininana and E. ‘Pink Fountain’ are less so and will only survive outside in milder coastal conditions or if protected from frost by horticultural fleece,” shares Colin Skelly, a Horticultural Consultant. They will tolerate partial shade, but grow best in full sun. Growing From Seed Echiums can be grown from seed, and you should get sowing in late spring or early summer. Once the seedlings have germinated, you can transplant them into the garden. To help the plants establish, water them once planted. Watering Once established, echiums are robust and drought tolerant so will not require frequent watering, however, in hotter months they may require a little extra help. The aim of the game is to keep the soil around them moist, but not soggy. If you are growing your echiums in pots or containers, then they will rely on you to provide them with water. Be sure to choose containers with adequate drainage holes to allow excess water to drain away freely. Echium Plant Care Echiums really do tend to take care of themselves. If you are growing a shrubby variety, you can cut off the flower spike after flowering and give the plant a little trim to encourage the plant to maintain its shape and avoid it becoming straggly. E. candican ‘Pride of Madeira’ Deadheading is not necessary, but as previously mentioned, it can help to extend the flowering period. Echium Varieties When it comes to echiums, part of the fun is choosing the right one for your garden. The varieties vary wildly, and all have something a little different to offer, and different species lend themselves to different planting styles. If you aren’t very familiar with this plant, then choosing the right echium for your garden can feel a bit overwhelming. We anticipated this and have put together a list of some of our favourite varieties to help you choose the perfect echium for you. E. vulgare E. vulgare, or viper’s bugloss, is a biennial wildflower with bristly foliage from which erect leafy stems emerge in early summer producing spikes of beautiful bell-shaped flowers in shades of violet, blue or purple. “Viper’s bugloss is a really fantastic native flower that bees love,” shares Dave Goulson, Bee Ecologist. Growing to a height of around 75cm and with a 50cm spread, this impressive variety is a magnet for essential pollinators making it a great candidate for a little wildlife or small meadow garden. It’s also very suitable for sunny mixed borders and provides early summer colour, blooming from June to August. E. vulgare thrives in full sun, in moderately fertile, well-drained soil; deadheading regularly will encourage extended flowering. After the flowering period, you can leave the stems uncut and this plant will self-sow freely around the garden. E. ‘Pink Fountain’ The breathtaking E. ‘Pink Fountain’ is arguably one of the most lusted-after varieties, growing to an impressive height of up to 2m and with a spread of around 1m. This variety is known for the wide tapered spike of flowers that it produces: up to 35cm wide, and in a dazzling pink. The plant basically acts as a lighthouse for bees, too, drawing in these important pollinators. ‘Pink Fountain’ is a hybrid, too, giving it the most striking characteristics of E. wildpretii and E. pininana, varieties which sport red and blue flowers respectively. In the first year you’ll enjoy a rosette of greyish-green leaves, replaced in the second year by the fountain of flowers that lend the variety its name. This species of echium works its magic best in moist, well-drained soil, in full sun to partial shade. E. amoenum ‘Red Feathers’ This fascinating, architectural echium is a compact, short-lived perennial which a dark green mound of evergreen leaves from which feathery plumes of russet-red flowers emerge in spring and all through summer. Growing to just 10cm in height and 8cm in spread, this variety of echium is perfect for filling gaps in borders and will also grow well in a pot or container, giving your patio or decking a taste of the exotic. E. amoenum ‘Red Feathers’ prefers moist, well-drained soil or compost and should be planted in a spot where it can enjoy full sun. Be sure to deadhead the blooms to encourage repeat flowering. E. pininana ‘Snow Tower’ Hailing from the Canary Islands, the E. pininana is easily the most recognisable variety and has been given the Royal Horticulture Society’s prestigious Award of Garden Merit. In the first year, this brilliant biennial forms a low rosette of hairy, silver spear-shaped leaves and then, during the second year, it hoists up its splendid spike, loaded with gorgeous, blue flowers. Growing to a height of around 1.8m and with a spread of 90cm, this superb specimen will thrive in a sunny sheltered spot in moist well-drained soil and is a perfect addition to the backs of garden borders. Common Problems Although echiums are generally disease-free, there are a few pesky pests to watch out for. Slugs & Snails Happily, it’s easy to see if you have a snail or slug problem thanks to the crime scene they leave behind with their long trails of silver slime. Slugs and snails can be combatted with pellets or, if you are unphased by these gross little opportunists, you can simply pick them off the plant and dispose of them. Caterpillars Although not a frequent problem, caterpillars can be quite partial to echiums. Like slugs and snails, they leave a tell-tale trail behind them, and in their case, it’s in the form of holes where they have chomped through the plant. There are lots of home remedies when it comes to tackling caterpillars, but one of the easiest ways to deal with them is to make the area around the plants they are attacking more attractive to birds. Simply spread some seeds around the base of the echium and the birds will visit and happily take the caterpillars off your hands! Elegant echiums are real statement pieces and can truly elevate your garden’s aesthetics, providing interest, beauty and whimsy. With so many varieties to choose from, you will have no trouble finding the perfect echium for you, whatever the size or style of your garden. References 1. Echium pininana. (n.d.). Kew Royal Botanic Gardens. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:115832-1
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We Interviewed Four Dahlia Growers - These Were Their Essential Grow Tips
IN THIS GUIDE Overview Why Grow Dahlias? Choosing Dahlias Where To Grow Dahlias Dahlia Plant Care Irrigation Staking Late Season Care References Dahlias are varied flowering plants that are favourites for many gardeners. They come in a huge range of shapes, sizes, growth habits and hues – so no matter what you are looking for when it comes to your garden design, you may well find a dahlia that suits. “My favourite plants at the moment are Dahlias,” shares Ben Raskin, an expert Horticulturist. “In my old garden, I couldn’t grow them because of slugs, but I’m enjoying them at the moment in my new garden.” We’ve interviewed FOUR dahlia specialists to understand the insider secrets to growing and caring for these fascinating plants, including: Jack Gott – Owner of plant nursery JRG Dahlias. Elaine Patullo – Owner of Dachshund Dahlia Plant Nursery. David Hall – Director at Halls of Heddon. June Nash – Secretary for The National Dahlia Society. “Dahlias are such a rewarding plant with a vast range of colours, forms and sizes, with just about every colour but blue!” says David. “They can be grown in pots though are better in the garden. They flower over a long period from mid-July, even a bit earlier depending on the varieties used, and they will flower right up to the frosts.” Overview Botanical Name Dahlia Plant Type Perennial Native Area Mexico & Central America Hardiness Rating Various Foliage Herbaceous Flowers Varied When To Sow April, May, June Flowering Months June to September (some varieties will flower until the onset of autumn frosts) Dahlias are related to sunflowers, daisies, chrysanthemums and zinnia, being members of the Asteraceae family.1 There are 42 species of dahlia, and many hybrids and sub-species are also commonly grown as garden plants.2 Their flowers and forms can vary considerably – dahlias can range in height from just 30cm or so to more than 6ft. “I am a huge dahlia fan,” shares Edible Bristol’s Sara Venn. “I love their blooms and how appealing they are to polliantors.” Dahlias offer incredibly varied blooms Most dahlias are not highly scented, but usually attract pollinators through their bright colours. They can be found in most shades – excepting blue. The flowers are composite, with central disc florets surrounded by ray florets. Though some describe the florets as ‘petals’, each is actually a flower in its own right. Why Grow Dahlias? “Dahlias are easy to grow and brighten any patio, border, allotment or field!” says Elaine, owner of Dachshund Dahlia Plant Nursery. “Every dahlia is unique, the range of shapes and colours is amazing and the fact pollinators love them too makes them even more appealing.” Dahlias are prized for their attractive, showy flowers, but the reasons to grow them vary depending on which cultivar or cultivars you choose to grow. Single flowers are best for pollinators (bees and beetles are the main pollinating species for this genus). More complex or double blooms are less wildlife friendly, but can often create impressive visual effects. “Dahlias have no boundaries and there are so many different sizes, shapes and colours that there is a dahlia for every garden, from a small front yard to a stately home,” says June. “They flower for such a long season, from late summer to the first frost, and in the autumn when there is little else in flower, dahlias add so much colour to the garden and they are easy to grow.” Large and showy, taller dahlias can often be stand-outs and key features in a planting scheme, while shorter cultivars can be great for container growing or for the front edge of beds or borders. David Hall also notes that they are being grown more often to be used as a cut flower, as they are very much ‘cut and come again’ perennials. “Photographing dahlias in late summer is always special, with their rich deep colours and textures,” shares award-winning garden photographer Andrea Jones. But there is another, more interesting and unusual reason why you might want to grow dahlias in your garden. You may be surprised to learn that dahlias are actually not only an ornamental but also an edible crop! ‘Verrone’s Obsidian’ As mentioned above, dahlias are a relative of the sunflower; they are also related to the Jerusalem artichoke. The petals of the flowers are edible, and you can also eat dahlia tubers. This was common knowledge to the native peoples of southern Mexico, who cultivated this plant as a crop. The tubers vary in taste depending on the cultivar or variety, and the soil in which they were grown. Heirloom varieties (such as D. pinnata ‘Yellow Gem’ for example) tend to be more flavoursome than more modern hybrids bred for huge, fluffy blooms. Some can be quite bland – but others taste somewhat like chestnuts or yacon, some like spicy apple, celery root or even carrot. So dahlias can be a great plant choice for companion planting in a vegetable garden, not just because they can attract pollinators and other beneficial insects, but also because they can be an edible crop in their own right. Note: take care if you plan on eating dahlia tubers. These plants will store any chemicals you use on your garden in their tubers, including any synthetic fertilisers or pesticides. Of course, we recommend that you always garden organically and never use these harmful products in your garden, so this should not be an issue. Dahlias and other edible flowers in a vegetable garden. Choosing Dahlias When choosing dahlias, you should of course consider whether you are growing them purely for their ornamental value. If you want to eat them, and would like them to attract pollinators and be beneficial for wildlife in your garden, you will need to take those things into account when choosing a cultivar or cultivars to grow. Cactus D. ‘My Love’ When talking about their appearance, dahlias are divided into 14 classification groups by the National Dahlia Society: Anemone flowered dahlias. Ball dahlias. Cactus dahlias. Collerette dahlias. Double orchid dahlias. Fimbriated dahlias. Formal decorative dahlias. Miscellaneous dahlias. Paeony dahlias. Pompom dahlias. Semi-cactus dahlias. Single flowered dahlias. Star dahlias. Waterlily dahlias. Thinking about the different flower choices available can help you to decide which one may be right for your particular garden plans. “I love growing single-flowered dahlias because they attract beneficial insects and pollinators,” shares Garden Designer Ann-Marie Powell. “I think that singles are a bit truer to nature and they look much more natural to me.” Of course, you will also need to consider the height to which the cultivar you are considering will grow. Pompom dahlia This will determine where best to place the plants in reference to the environment and other plantings around. But largely speaking, which dahlias you choose to grow will be a matter of personal aesthetic preference. Where To Grow Dahlias “Dahlias do best in the open ground, in a sunny aspect and with well-drained soil,” explains David – and we agree! All dahlias like a sunny site, ideally with space between them and neighbouring plants. Dahlias like a relatively fertile soil that is rich in organic matter; moist yet relatively free-draining soils are ideal. Where the climate allows tubers to remain in the ground over the winter, it is best to plant them in lighter, more free-draining soils. Though dahlias can grow in heavier clay, the tubers can suffer in the colder and soggier conditions. If you do have a heavier soil, or live in a colder area, you will likely need to lift the tubers in autumn or grow them in pots year-round. Dahlia Plant Care Irrigation Dahlias need to be watered well in hot and dry weather. It is best to water deeply once a week rather than watering little and often, as the latter can encourage shallower root formation and less resilient plants. “Don’t let the soil get too dry, but also make sure the soil is well-draining so the plants do not get waterlogged,” says Jack Gott, the owner of JRG Dahlias (with over 50 years of experience growing dahlias). See more expert guidance in our watering guide. Staking Remember, taller dahlias will need staking or some other form of support. Often, you will not need to buy supports but can make your own using long branches or canes from your garden, or reclaimed materials that might otherwise be thrown away. Late Season Care “Regular deadheading will help prolong flowering, unless, of course, you fancy collecting some of your own seeds,” says David. Deadhead weekly to encourage plants to produce more flowers – cut back the stems to a leaf node. “Dahlias is simple once you can tell new flower buds from spent flowers,” shares Dan Ori, a Master Horticulturist. “This may sound easy if you have never looked closely at a spent Dahlia flower, but they sometimes resemble flower buds, so be careful when pruning.” Of course, you may also wish to harvest dahlias for cut flowers through the summer season. As autumn wears on, dahlias will typically start looking more and more tatty; flowering will slow down as the temperatures fall. At the end of the season, you will, if you live in warmer regions with free-draining soil, be able to leave tubers in place. But mulch well with a dense layer of bark chip, straw or compost to protect the tubers from the cold. In all other situations, cut down the stems and dig up the tubers. See our guidelines for overwintering to use your tubers again the following year. Take care of the tubers and you can enjoy your dahlias year after year. References 1. Sunflowers, Daisies, Asters, and Allies (Family Asteraceae). (n.d.). iNaturalist. Retrieved March 14, 2023, from https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/47604-Asteraceae 2. Species Dahlias. (n.d.). The American Dahlia Society. Retrieved March 14, 2023, from https://www.dahlia.org/docsinfo/species-dahlias/
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How To Grow Masterworts According To A Specialist Astrantia Nursery
IN THIS GUIDE Overview Why Grow Astrantia? Where To Grow How To Grow Astrantia Astrantia Plant Care Common Problems References The interesting pincushion blooms of Astrantia make them a popular choice for summer colour in a garden. There are a number of cultivars well worth considering – with blooms in an array of reds, pinks and whites. In each of our Astrantia guides, we collaborate with Caroline Samuel, Owner of Letham Plants, a specialist Astrantia nursery. “Astrantias are great border plants with lush green foliage and straight stems that are topped with star-shaped flowers,” Caroline says. “The flowers are pincushion-like and are surrounded by papery bracts, giving a starry appearance. “There are lots of varieties, in a range of colours from white to pink, to cherry red through to burgundy. “They make excellent cut flowers and you might see them in summer wedding bouquets as well as in displays around the home.” Overview Botanical Name Astrantia Common Name(s) Masterwort, Hattie’s Pincushion Plant Type Herbaceous perennial Native Area Europe and Western Asia Hardiness Rating H7 Foliage Palmately lobed basal leaves Flowers Compact umbels of tiny flowers usually pinkish, reddish hues When To Sow February to April Flowering Months June to September When To Prune July to August Astrantia is a genus of herbaceous plants – the name of which refers to the open, star-shaped floral bracts that radiate out around the pincushion-like flowering heads.1 One common name for this plant is ‘Hattie’s Pincushion’, while it is also referred to as ‘Masterwort’ and ‘Melancholy Gentleman’. As mentioned above, there are plenty of cultivars within this genus to choose from, but here are some excellent options for gardeners in the UK to consider: A. ‘Star of Fire’ – deep red bracts tipped black, green leaves edged with pink and black. A. major ‘Bloody Mary’ – dark green leaves and rich, dark red flowers with silver-green centres. A. ‘Gill Richardson’ – vibrant cherry-red flowers from April-September. A. major var. Rosea – dark foliage and charming pinkish-white blooms. A. major ‘Alba’ – white flowers June-October. Of course, these are just some of the options you could consider for your garden. “A. major ‘Star of Fire’ is a favourite of mine,” Caroline shares. “It is of medium size at around 60cm and has dark burgundy flower stems and dark red flowers tipped black. A. ‘Star of Fire’ “It looks great in the garden when planted with grasses and is an excellent cut flower.” Another favourite of Caroline’s is ‘Snow Star’, which is a similar size to ‘Star of Fire’ but is instead completely white and makes an excellent addition to garden borders. A. ‘Snow Star’ “Astrantia major ‘Pink Sensation’ is my final pick, and this variety has large pale pink flowers,” she adds. “This flower is not for a small garden, as the leaves on it are huge as are the flowers. “Like most Astrantias, this one is loved by the bees and butterflies.” Why Grow Astrantia? All of the varietals named above, along with a number of other beautiful options, are wonderful choices for a perennial planting scheme. “Astrantia flowers look multi-dimensional to me in early summer and are always intriguing to photograph,” shares Andrea Jones, an award-winning garden photographer. Aside from being prized for their attractive blooms, Astrantia is also a good choice for creating ground cover when the plants are grown in a group. An effective ground cover can protect the soil and keep your soil ecosystem healthy and productive over time. Astrantia is also well-known for self-seeding in the right conditions. This can be great where gardeners are looking for a low-maintenance and wilder garden scheme. However, you can also deadhead zealously if you want to discourage this. Astrantia flowers can also make good cut flowers, so you could also remove the blooms before they set seed and use them for floral arrangements and displays inside your home. These plants are typical plants for British gardens, having bloomed here since Tudor times. They look at home in a cottage or English garden type design. “Our asters are looking fabulous at the moment this autumn and take very little care,” shares Claire Greenslade, the Head Gardener at Hestercombe Gardens. “We make sure that we have good staking in place by April or May and we use coppiced hazel from the estate to make our supports so they look nice and natural.” One of the other reasons for their enduring popularity is that they are slug and snail-proof. These plants can therefore be a good choice if these are an issue where you live. Another major plus for gardeners growing Astrantia is the fact that these are excellent wildlife-friendly plants as their nectar-rich flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Growing some Astrantias can help in maintaining the natural biodiversity that is needed for a healthy organic garden. Where To Grow Astrantia grows best in moist, humus-rich soil. A loamy soil that is high in organic matter is ideal, and sites with sandy soil will usually struggle to retain enough moisture. Clay soils can also be suitable for growing these plants, as long as they remain moist and do not bake dry in hot weather. Astrantia major ‘Shaggy’ Astrantias will commonly thrive in the dappled shade beneath trees in a woodland or forest garden. Though it is worth noting that certain darker-hued varieties will perform better in a sunnier spot, so it is important to know the needs of the varietal or varietals you are considering. Astrantias will also tend to do well under trees or shrubs or in glade areas between them, in a moist garden bed or border. Astrantia in a garden border Astrantia lends itself well to planting in groups, where, as mentioned above, it will provide good ground cover between other plants. Good companion plants for Astrantias include: Dryopteris Geums Salvias Thalictrums Sambucus nigra Though it will work well with many other plants that prefer relatively moist conditions. “I have found using Astrantia to underplant roses in a cottage garden scheme works well, as they cover the often bare lower part of rose shrubs and flower in between the main flushes of rose flowers in June and September,” shares Roy Nicol, a Professional Gardener and Horticulturist. How To Grow Astrantia From Seed Astrantia seeds can be sown under cover in spring between February and April before being pricked out, potted on and planted out once the weather warms. You can also sow seeds from your own Astrantia plants directly in August or September in trays or drills in the garden, before pricking out and planting into their final growing positions the following spring. “`be aware that seeds from cultivars do not come true from seed and so the colours are likely to differ from the original,” adds Roy. Bedding Plants Bedding plants purchased for your garden can be planted out between October and April. Simply remove the plant from its pot and position it in a planting hole. Refill the hole around the plant, firm it, and water well. Add a mulch of organic matter around your plants to retain soil moisture. Astrantia Plant Care Astrantia plants should be well-watered. Adequate watering is particularly important to shepherd these plants through their first summer. “Astrantia does not tolerate long spells of drought, especially on light soils which are free draining,” says Caroline. “If your Astrantias wilt due to a lack of watering, extra water helps and the plants will recover with no ill effect.” Note that plants grown in pots or containers will require more water than those grown in the ground. Mulching “A mulch of organic matter is useful in the autumn,” adds Caroline. Autumn leaves or leaf mould, home-made compost and well-rotted manure can all be good mulch choices. As long as the basic needs of moisture, soil and environmental conditions are met, Astrantia plants are relatively easy and low maintenance – requiring little care. Common Problems Usually trouble-free and, as mentioned above, untroubled by slugs and snails, Astrantias can be susceptible to fungal infections such as powdery mildews. You can reduce the chances of a problem occurring by making sure that plants do not dry out and do not experience physiological stress. Plants not in tip-top condition are more likely to be a target. Mulching well will also help to reduce the incidence of problems, as it can prevent soil containing fungal spores from splashing back up onto the plant’s leaves. When watering, try to water at the roots and not from above, so foliage is not left wet. Make sure there is good airflow around plants and avoid overcrowding. This can be achieved by dividing plants in the spring and re-planting them in more space. You will be able to see if this problem has arisen by the white coating that appears on the leaves. “Astrantias can also suffer from Astrantia leaf miner,” Caroline explains. “The leaf miner causes brown patches on the leaves, usually early summer. “This is caused by the larvae of the fly feeding within the foliage of the plants. Affected leaves can be removed, but whilst unsightly, it does not affect the flowers.” Preventing Fungal Infections To reduce the spread of such fungal infections in an organic garden, you should always remove affected foliage as quickly as possible. Usually, other interventions will not be required. However, you can also make a home-made fungicide to spray on surrounding leaves, which can also reduce the spread and help in tackling milder infections. One example is a solution of 5% apple cider vinegar in 1 gallon of water sprayed on leaves in the cool morning hours. You can also use solutions containing garlic, or bicarbonate of soda if fungal infections such as powdery mildew become a persistent problem. In autumn, cut back affected plants and be careful as you dispose of or burn the foliage. Do not add the material to your compost heap, and keep it away from other areas of the garden so the problem does not spread. Grow them in the right places and consider the conditions they like best and you should find that Astrantias are superb, hassle-free flowering plants for your garden. As perennials, they will come back each year to delight you, and the bees and other insect life in your area. References 1. Masterwort (Genus Astrantia). (n.d.). iNaturalist United Kingdom. Retrieved March 10, 2023, from https://uk.inaturalist.org/taxa/131624-Astrantia
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How To Grow Geums (Avens) - These Plants Are A Firm Favourite At RHS Chelsea
IN THIS GUIDE Overview Geum Types How To Grow Geums Plant Care Common Problems References Commonly known as ‘Avens’, Geums provide splendid colour, making them a firm favourite at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.1 Growing to around 18 inches in height, this pretty plant forms spreading mounds of evergreen foliage which can add much-needed texture and structure to your garden. From May to July their leafy, branching stems hold solitary, intensely coloured flowers, or little clusters of smaller, colourful flowers, usually of orange, yellow and red. Another benefit of geums is that bees find them extremely attractive, leading them to seed and hybridise freely, as Master Horticulturist Colin Skelly explains: “Because of the propensity to hybridise, there are always new cultivars being introduced. “If you introduce species into your garden you are likely to end up with some hybrids of your own. “I am a great fan of Geums, particularly their long flowering season but also for their long flowering stems which emerge from a low rosette – a great companion plant for other early summer flowering perennials and bulbs like Alliums.” When two species of geum hybridise, either guided by the gardener or spontaneously, their offspring is usually sterile, meaning they’ll produce flowers for longer. Some hybrids can bloom for months rather than weeks and won’t produce seeds. Overview Botanical Name Geum Common Name(s) Avens Plant Type Perennial Flower Native Area Europe, Asia, Americas, Africa, New Zealand Hardiness Rating H7 Foliage Herbaceous Flowers Various bright colours; usually red, orange or yellow When To Sow January, February, March, April, September, October, November, December Flowering Months April, May, June, July, August, September When To Prune January, February, March, October, November, December Geums are a genus of around 54 species of rhizomatous perennial herbaceous plants; they’re part of the rose family and the subfamily of Rosoideae.2 These plants are hardy and slug resistant, and their foliage works wonderfully for suppressing weeds. In general, geums prefer moist well-drained soil so incorporating organic matter when planting will help them to retain the moisture they need to support their growth. Their foliage can scorch in the sun, so we recommend planting in partial shade. Where colour is concerned, the flowers can come in an exquisite range of hues, from rich dark reds to pale pastel yellow. Geums are said to be a symbol of purity; the scientific name is derived from the Greek word “geno” meaning “to give off a pleasant fragrance”, which is likely because of the clove-like aroma the roots exude.3 Geums are extremely easy to grow and provide such a tremendous burst of colour, that they have long been exceptionally popular among gardeners. Geum Types With over 50 species of geums, all with their own unique look – it can be hard to pick which one would best suit your garden. That’s why we’ve chosen a few of our favourites to help you get started: ‘Fireball’ Topping our list is the fireball geum, with its gorgeous orange blooms with red edges, this variety is a firm favourite and blossoms gloriously from late spring to early summer. Similar to a few other species, this plucky little plant also produces pretty fluffy seedheads which are extremely attractive to the eye. This species prefers shade, but it can still perform well in the sun as long as it is planted where it can get some respite in the afternoon. Fireball geums have coarse, evergreen foliage that can provide texture and interest to your garden. They are also well-loved by butterflies and other helpful pollinators. ‘Alabama Slammer’ Slamming into our list is the showy Alabama slammer. Growing to a height of 10-14 inches and a spread of 12-14 inches, this prolific little plant has the ability to produce 155 flowers or more. This species sports golden flowers with ruffled edges and has speckles of red and orange. Alabama slammers are generally very disease resistant and grow vigorously, requiring very little maintenance. This variety will thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade and prefers average to medium moisture and well-drained soil. ‘Mai Tai’ ‘Mai Tai’ geums get their name thanks to the similar colours they share with the famous cocktail. Their delicate-looking flowers gradually fade from a soft peach colour to pale pink and bloom from late spring to early summer. This species can produce as many as 135 flowers per plant, and their burgundy-coloured stems combined with the colour of their blossoms make them extremely aesthetically pleasing. ‘Mai Tai’ geums do well in both full sun and partial shade and are actually very unfussy when it comes to soil types. Their unique colour and easy-going nature mean they are perfect for adding much-needed interest to any area of your garden. ‘Wet Kiss’ This clump-forming geum sports either single or semi-double ruffled flowers which, as the plant matures, fades into a gorgeous orange, peachy colour that is sure to turn heads. Growing to around 14 inches in both height and width, the ‘Wet Kiss’ geum prefers moist and fertile soil in partial shade or full sun. That said it can still do well in average soils. Their lush, green foliage and burgundy stems can add much-needed structure and definition to your garden, so if you want to amp up a dull landscape, then the wet kiss geum is just what the doctor ordered. ‘Rogers Rebellion’ If you want to spice up your garden a bit, then this variety is for you. ‘Rogers Rebellion’ geums have handsome, unusual, dark red stems and buds which then open to dainty, nodding, raspberry-coloured flowers with sweet cream undertones. These hardy plants will thrive in both full sun or partial shade and are ideal for borders as well as making gorgeous cut flowers. How To Grow Geums Now that you’ve brushed up your knowledge on geums, you are no doubt even keener to introduce them to your garden. Different varieties will have different needs but generally speaking, you will want to plant them in full sun to partial shade and in moisture-retentive soil. Geums thrive in both acidic and alkaline soil, but they will not cope well at all with sodden, saturated soil in the winter months. You can improve the quality of the earth by introducing organic matter before planting. You can then firm the plants in and water regularly, taking extra care in the hotter summer months. Propagating geums is also extremely easy, side shoots can be dug up with little trouble and can then be replanted elsewhere in the garden. They can also be divided in spring and will set seed. Plant Care Happily, geums are really low maintenance, the main thing you need to remember is to deadhead them after flowering. We also highly recommend dividing the plants every three years or so, this will help maintain their strength and encourage more flowering. If you don’t divide your geums, you run the risk of them becoming woody which may result in them dying off. Common Problems Geums are remarkably trouble-free plants, slugs, snails and deer have very little interest in them. The one creature you want to look out for is vine weevils which are, thankfully, very easy to detect. Vine weevils make their presence known by chomping out notches of the foliage and will do so generally between spring and late summer. Vine weevil grubs also enjoy dining out on the roots of geums, and this can be a killer for the plant. If you are battling vine weevils, then we recommend finding products that won’t harm other wildlife, there are plenty to choose from, and many are extremely effective, such as parasitic nematodes, which eat the vine weevil larvae. Geums are generous plants – with minimal effort from the gardener, they can provide a contagious contrast of colour and fabulous foliage that can add drama and depth to your garden. These cheerful chaps can make a real statement and can help to brighten up dark corners and liven up beds and borders. References 1. Trends from the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2019. (n.d.). Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved March 16, 2023, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/shows-events/rhs-chelsea-flower-show/news/2019/trendspotting-at-chelsea-2019 2. Avens (Genus Geum). (n.d.). iNaturalist United Kingdom. Retrieved March 16, 2023, from https://uk.inaturalist.org/taxa/55751-Geum 3. A Modern Herbal – Avens. (n.d.). Botanical.com. Retrieved March 16, 2023, from https://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/a/avens083.html
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These Are The Conditions You Need To Grow Snapdragons Say Horticulturists
IN THIS GUIDE Overview How To Grow Snapdragons Soil Sunlight Planting Water Propagating Common Problems Snapdragon Types References Antirrhinum, commonly known as ‘snapdragon’, is often thought of as an old-fashioned, country cottage plant, conjuring up memories of running through your grandparent’s garden as a child. But these cheery, vibrant annual plants are making a keen comeback. Snapdragons are easy to grow, bursting with colour, wonderfully fragrant and beloved by bees and other vital pollinators. Blooming from April to June and August to October, these powerful plants come in a vast array of colours and various heights, and can really bring a dynamic twist to your garden. Perfect for beds and borders, they also thrive in containers – making them perfect for any garden, regardless of the style or size. Overview Botanical Name Antirrhinum majus Common Name(s) Snapdragon Plant Type Perennial / Annual Flower Native Area Europe, North America, North Africa Hardiness Rating H3 Foliage Simple leaves Flowers Tubular, two-lipped flowers, solitary or in terminal racemes Flowering Months April, May, June, August, September When To Prune May, June, July, August, September Snapdragons get their name thanks to their snout-shaped flowers which resemble the jaw of a dragon – the “dragon’s mouth” even opens and closes when squeezed laterally and makes a slight snapping sound. The plants are said to represent both deception and graciousness.1 Whether all that is true remains to be seen, but an absolute fact is that they are stunning plants that are guaranteed to brighten up your garden. Snapdragons fall into three different categories which are determined by their height and are as follows: Dwarf – measuring from 15-35cm in height Intermediate – measuring from 35-75cm in height Tall – measuring from 75-120cm in height The variety in sizes makes this a multi-purpose plant well suited to bringing texture and structure to your garden. They’re also sure to complement other flowers. How To Grow Snapdragons Snapdragons are undemanding and easy to grow, making them perfect for novice gardeners or those of us with a busy schedule. They are also a wonderful and rewarding plant to encourage children to learn about gardening. I actually grew some from seed earlier this year. These were sown in my indoor propagator around late February, before being planted out in May. You can see that I managed to achieve some pretty spectacular flowers, though I did need to stake them with bamboo canes given we live in a really windy area! At first I was worried I had planted them outside a little too early, as the foliage of the seedling showed signs of stress, but the plant slowly grew to life as summer approached and the weather got gradually warmer. The pollinators loved them, and given that they were so easy to grow, I will definitely be growing even more this coming year. “I grow dwarf Antirrhinums in my kitchen garden to enjoy as cut flowers but also to attract pollinators,” shares Master Horticulturist Colin Skelly. “The shorter cultivars mean that I don’t have to worry about them collapsing over later in the summer.” Many varieties will repeat bloom, but all of them tend to do best in the cooler months of spring and autumn. If you are keen to introduce snapdragons into your garden then but aren’t sure where to begin, we have put together a complete guide to growing and caring for these spectacular plants. Soil Snapdragons are not too fussy, but they do prefer moist, well-drained soil. Being short-lived plants, they aren’t heavy feeders but, they will appreciate it if you add a layer of organic matter to keep them healthy and happy. Sunlight If you want to get the most out of your snapdragons, then plant them in full sun to partial shade. Opting for partial shade and keeping them well watered will give them more of a chance to make it through summer and will often bloom again in autumn. Planting You can sow snapdragon seeds in early spring or autumn. When large enough to handle you can transfer the seeds into pots or containers and place in a sheltered spot. If you are planting them in beds or borders, then be sure to do so after the threat of frost. Water Snapdragons are thirsty plants, so make sure you provide them with adequate water. Once established, they require an inch of water a week if there has been no rain – but be sure not to over-water. You should also avoid overhead watering and instead aim for the crown. Propagating With their prolific flowering and beautiful colours, you will likely want to introduce these plants into other parts of your garden or share them with family or friends. You can divide snapdragon plant roots by digging the plant up at the end of summer. Divide the root mass into as many pieces as you desire and then plant each division into a large container. You will need to keep the container indoors throughout winter and then plant into the garden the following spring. It is worth mentioning however that these plants establish quickly, so if you don’t have luck with propagation it is easy to replace them with fresh new snapdragons. Common Problems Snapdragons generally have few problems with pests, and although diseases are uncommon, the main things to watch out for are powdery and downy mildew, and Botrytis blight. There are many options for getting rid of powdery and downy mildew. Botrytis blight is a little trickier, but first and foremost be sure to disinfect pruners between cuts to prevent the spread of this disease. It’s then advisable to destroy infected plant material; this will also prevent it from spreading to nearby plants. Snapdragon Types There are dozens of varieties of snapdragons, blooming in gorgeous colours of red, pink, orange, yellow, purple and white, as well as in bicolours, and both pastel shades to the brightest of hues. With so many varieties to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start so we have picked out some of our favourites to help get you started. Antirrhinum majus ‘Rocket’ This lofty snapdragon grows to a height of around 90cm and comes in a variety of colours. They have sturdy stems with florets that are closely set and are extremely tolerant of heat. With eight colours to choose from they are a versatile option that are sure to bring a burst of colour to your garden. A. majus ‘Black Prince’ Contrary to their name, black prince snapdragons actually have dark purple leaves and beautiful deep red flowers. Growing up to 45cm in height, this variety enjoys warmer weather and will thrive in a spot where it can enjoy full sun. A. majus ‘Royal Bride’ This traditional variety is one you will commonly see in the gardens of country cottages. It blooms in pure “bride” white with a gorgeous dash of cream near its stem. Royal bride snapdragons can reach heights of 90cm and have a glorious aroma. Plant near paths or house entrances to enjoy their delicious scent. A. majus ‘Tahiti’ This variety grows to a height of around 20cm and is among the tallest in the dwarf snapdragon category. They are the ideal plant for garden bedding. They don’t come in as many colours as many other types, but they make up for it with the option of bi-colour flowers. They can be sown at almost any time of year and are perfect for rockeries, borders and containers. A. majus ‘Madame Butterfly’ This showy specimen is a delightful cross between rocket and bright butterfly snapdragons. Their flowers aren’t as open-faced as the butterflies but more so than the rocket. The madame butterfly snapdragons have fluffy, azalea-shaped blooms and come in rich colours of red, orange, pink, yellow, white, purple and lavender. Chandelier This romantic variety of snapdragon is more of a trailing plant, with a bush-like quality. Their flowers are a little smaller than other types, and if placed in a hanging basket, their blooms and leaves will cascade down with beautiful and dramatic effect. References 1. Snapdragon Flower Meaning. (2017, March 21). Flower Meanings. Retrieved April 11, 2023, from https://www.flowermeaning.com/snapdragon-flower-meaning/
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