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Growing Hebes: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Hebes are beautiful evergreen shrubs that are popular for their versatility and ease of care. Native to New Zealand, Australia, and South America, they come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, making them suitable for various planting schemes. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to successfully grow hebes in your garden.
Choosing the Right Hebe
Hebes come in a wide variety, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. Consider the following factors:
- Size: Hebes range in size from compact ground covers to large shrubs. Choose a variety that will fit well in the space you have available.
- Hardiness: Some hebes are more frost-tolerant than others. Choose a variety that is suitable for your climate.
- Foliage: Hebes have a variety of foliage colors, including green, pink, and variegated. Choose a variety that will complement the other plants in your garden.
Planting Hebes
- Timing: Plant hebes in late spring or early summer.
- Location: Choose a sheltered spot with well-drained soil. Hebes can tolerate full sun or partial shade.
- Spacing: Space hebes according to their mature size. Smaller varieties can be spaced 1-2 feet apart, while larger varieties may need 3-5 feet of space.
- Planting: Dig a hole twice the width of the rootball and just as deep. Place the hebe in the hole and fill it with soil, gently firming it around the plant. Water well after planting.
Caring for Hebes
- Watering: Hebes are drought-tolerant, but they will benefit from regular watering during dry spells.
- Fertilizing: Avoid over-fertilizing hebes, as this can lead to weak growth. A light application of a slow-release fertilizer in early spring is sufficient.
- Pruning: Prune hebes in late summer after flowering. Remove dead or diseased branches and cut back up to a third of the foliage to encourage new growth.
- Mulching: Mulching around hebes helps to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Propagating Hebes
Hebes can be propagated from cuttings taken in summer.
- Select: Choose non-flowering shoots and remove the leaves from the lower portion of the stem.
- Plant: Push the cuttings into a pot of moist, gritty compost.
- Cover: Cover the cuttings with a clear plastic bag or place them in a propagator to maintain moisture.
- Transplant: Pot up the cuttings the following spring.
Troubleshooting Problems
- Browning leaves: Browning leaves can be caused by drought stress. Water the hebe deeply and regularly.
- Frost damage: If the hebe has been exposed to frost, prune out any damaged growth and apply a mulch. New growth should emerge in spring.
- Pests: Hebes are generally pest-free, but they can be susceptible to aphids and scale insects. Treat infestations with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Conclusion
Hebes are easy-care shrubs that can add beauty and interest to your garden. By following the tips in this guide, you can successfully grow and enjoy these versatile plants for years to come.
