Basket-of-Gold: A Guide to Growing Golden Sunshine in Your Garden
Introduction
Basket-of-gold plants, also known as yellow alyssum or basket-of-gold alyssum, are cheerful and easy-to-grow plants that add a splash of sunshine to any garden. Their bright gold flowers resemble tiny coins and bloom in abundance, creating a dazzling display. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to successfully grow and care for basket-of-gold plants in your garden.
Plant Characteristics
Basket-of-gold plants (Aurinia saxtilis) are low-growing perennials that typically reach a height of 1 foot (30 cm) and a width of 2 feet (60 cm). They are native to Europe and Asia and are closely related to rock cresses (Arabis spp.) rather than sweet alyssum. The plants feature attractive gray-green leaves and produce masses of small, star-shaped flowers in shades of yellow, lemon-yellow, or peachy-yellow.
Growing Conditions
Basket-of-gold plants thrive in sunny locations with well-draining soil. They prefer average soil conditions and do not tolerate rich or overly moist sites. To ensure optimal growth, plant your basket-of-golds in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day and has soil that drains well.
Planting
You can start basket-of-gold plants from seeds or bedding plants. If starting from seeds, sow them directly in the garden in summer or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. For bedding plants, set them out in early fall. Space the plants 6-12 inches apart.
Watering
Basket-of-gold plants require regular watering, especially when they are young. Once established, they are drought-tolerant and can withstand occasional dry spells. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilizing
Fertilize basket-of-gold plants lightly every other year or so. Use a balanced organic fertilizer or a couple of handfuls of compost scattered around the plants in fall. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can result in poor flowering and a loss of the plant’s compact shape.
Maintenance
To keep your basket-of-gold plants looking their best, shear off the top one-third of the plants after the petals drop in summer. This shearing will revitalize the plants and prevent them from going to seed. Basket-of-gold plants do not need division to stay healthy, but you can divide them right after shearing if desired.
Troubleshooting
- Die-back in hot, humid climates: Basket-of-gold plants may die back in midsummer in hot, humid climates. If this occurs, try growing them as annuals or move them to a shadier location.
- Root rot: Root rot can occur if the soil is too moist. Ensure that the soil drains well and avoid overwatering.
- Poor flowering: Over-fertilizing can lead to poor flowering. Fertilize lightly and only every other year or so.
Companion Plants
Basket-of-gold flowers make excellent companions for spring bulbs and sedums. Their bright yellow blooms complement the colors of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. They also pair well with the fleshy leaves and colorful flowers of sedums.
Cultivars
There are several cultivars of Aurinia saxtilis available, including:
- ‘Citrinum’: Features lemon-yellow flowers
- ‘Sunny Border Apricot’: Produces peachy-yellow blossoms
- ‘Gold Dust’: Compact variety with bright yellow flowers
Conclusion
Basket-of-gold plants are easy-to-grow and low-maintenance perennials that add a touch of golden sunshine to any garden. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can successfully grow and enjoy these cheerful plants for years to come.
