Tag:

Perennial

Propagating Creeping Phlox from Cuttings: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

by Gregory September 21, 2024

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Propagating Creeping Phlox: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Creeping phlox is a beautiful perennial that adds a splash of color to gardens in the spring. While it’s not particularly showy when it’s not in bloom, its vibrant flowers in shades of pink, white, lavender, and even red more than make up for it. This easy-to-grow plant can be propagated in several ways, with stem cuttings being one of the most common and successful methods.

When to Take Cuttings from Creeping Phlox

The best time to take cuttings from creeping phlox is either in the summer or fall. However, autumn seems to be the ideal time for planting cuttings, as they tend to root best in cooler temperatures. Some gardeners prefer to take cuttings early in the growing season when the plants are actively growing, but the plants persist well into the cold season and rooted nodes will still sufficiently establish by the time full winter arrives.

Types of Creeping Phlox Cuttings

There are two main types of creeping phlox cuttings:

Rooted stems: These are stems that have already developed roots. They will establish more quickly than other types of cuttings.
Terminal end cuttings: These are cuttings taken from the tip of a stem. They will take longer to develop roots, but they will eventually do so if they are cut near a growth node.

How to Take Creeping Phlox Cuttings

To take cuttings from creeping phlox, you will need:

Sharp, clean cutting tools
A growing medium such as a combination of peat, coarse sand, and perlite
Rooting hormone (optional)

Remove a 6-inch section of a rooted stem or a lateral shoot near the tip.
Make your cut ½ inch below a leaf.
Remove the leaves from the bottom 1/3 of the cutting.
Dip the cut end into rooting hormone, if desired.
Plant the cutting in the growing medium, burying the cut end 4 inches deep.
Keep the growing medium moist and place the container in bright but indirect light.
You may also choose to place a plastic bag over the container to conserve moisture. Remove it once a day to prevent fungal build-up.

Caring for Creeping Phlox Cuttings

Creeping phlox cuttings typically take 4 to 6 weeks to root. Once they have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden. Here are some tips for caring for creeping phlox cuttings:

Keep the growing medium moist but not soggy.
Place the cuttings in bright but indirect light.
Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilize the cuttings once they have rooted.
Protect the cuttings from frost if you are transplanting them in the fall or winter.

Benefits of Propagating Creeping Phlox from Cuttings

There are several benefits to propagating creeping phlox from cuttings, including:

It is a relatively easy and inexpensive way to create new plants.
You can create new plants that are identical to the parent plant.
You can propagate plants that are not available commercially.
You can propagate plants that are difficult to grow from seed.

Conclusion

Propagating creeping phlox from cuttings is a great way to add more of these beautiful plants to your garden. By following the tips in this guide, you can successfully propagate creeping phlox cuttings and enjoy their vibrant blooms for years to come.

Grasses

Northern Sea Oats: A Versatile and Easy-to-Grow Ornamental Grass for Your Garden

by Gregory August 25, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Northern Sea Oats: A Versatile Ornamental Grass for Your Garden

Introduction

Northern sea oats (Chasmanthium latifolium) is a beautiful and versatile ornamental grass that adds interest to your garden with its unique flat foliage and seed heads. Native to the eastern and southern United States, this perennial grass thrives in USDA zones 5 to 8.

Description

Northern sea oats forms loose tufts with long, dark green leaves that resemble bamboo. Its main attraction is the flower’s seed head, which resembles wheat heads with a wide, flat construction. These dangling panicles turn a rich bronze in fall and persist for three seasons.

Growing Conditions

This adaptable grass performs well in both sun and shade. It prefers rich, well-drained soil but can tolerate dry conditions or moist soils. When grown in a shady location, it becomes greener and taller.

Planting

Plant northern sea oats in a location where it has plenty of space to spread. It can reach a height and spread of 3 to 5 feet. Rhizomes help it spread, so consider planting it in an area where it won’t become invasive.

Care and Maintenance

Northern sea oats is relatively low-maintenance. Water it regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Cut off seed heads to prevent self-sowing and bring them indoors for use in dried floral arrangements. Shear back foliage in late winter to make way for new growth.

Uses in the Garden

Northern sea oats adds movement and texture to the landscape. Plant it in mass to create a swath of motion. It’s also a good choice for coastal areas as it tolerates sea spray.

Propagation

Northern sea oats can be easily propagated by dividing the rhizomes in fall or early spring. Dig up a clump of grass and divide it into smaller sections, each with a few roots. Replant the divisions in well-drained soil.

Tips for Growing Northern Sea Oats

Choose a sunny or shady location with well-drained soil.
Water regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Cut off seed heads to prevent self-sowing.
Shear back foliage in late winter.
Divide rhizomes in fall or early spring to propagate new plants.
Be aware of the invasive nature of this grass and plant it in a controlled area.

Benefits of Northern Sea Oats

Adds interest and texture to the garden with its unique foliage and seed heads.
Versatile plant that thrives in both sun and shade.
Tolerant of drought and coastal conditions.
Attracts wildlife and pollinators to your garden.
Easy to grow and maintain.

Conclusion

Northern sea oats is a beautiful and versatile ornamental grass that is easy to grow and maintain. With its adaptability to different growing conditions, it’s a great choice for gardeners of all levels.

Herbs

Chicory Lifespan: Annual or Perennial? Understanding the Factors that Affect It

by Gregory July 30, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Chicory: A Versatile Plant with a Complex Lifespan

Introduction

Chicory is a fascinating plant that belongs to the daisy family, closely related to dandelions. It has a deep taproot that serves as the source of a popular coffee substitute in many regions. But how long does chicory live? The answer depends on several factors, including environmental conditions, cultivation practices, and the specific type of chicory.

Chicory Lifespan Basics

The lifespan of a chicory plant can vary greatly, ranging from a few years to over a decade. Generally speaking, chicory is considered a short-lived perennial, meaning it can live for multiple years but eventually dies back. However, the way growers treat the plant can significantly impact its lifespan.

Is Chicory an Annual or Perennial?

The classification of chicory as an annual or perennial depends on the specific variety and its intended use. There are two main types of chicory:

Cichorium intybus: This variety is primarily grown for its roots, which are used as a coffee substitute. It is technically a perennial but is often treated as a biennial in commercial settings due to the bitterness of the roots over time.
Cichorium foliosum: This variety is grown for its leaves, which are used in salads. It is typically classified as an annual to biennial plant.

Factors Affecting Chicory Lifespan

Several factors can influence the lifespan of chicory plants, including:

Site conditions: Chicory prefers well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. Poor soil conditions or lack of sunlight can shorten its lifespan.
Weather: Extreme weather events, such as droughts or severe frosts, can damage or kill chicory plants.
Animal and insect intervention: Animals and insects can feed on chicory plants, potentially reducing their lifespan.
Cultivation practices: The way growers harvest and care for chicory plants can impact their lifespan. For example, harvesting the roots too frequently can weaken the plant and shorten its life.

Chicory Cultivation

In commercial settings, chicory plants are typically harvested twice for their roots. After the second harvest, the plants are usually scrapped and replaced with new ones. This practice ensures that the roots remain palatable and free of bitterness.

Uses of Chicory

Beyond its culinary uses as a coffee substitute and salad green, chicory has a multitude of other applications:

Medicinal: Both annual and perennial chicory varieties have healing properties and provide important medicinal benefits, both topically and internally.
Animal forage: Chicory is a valuable source of food for animals, providing important nutrients.
Other: Chicory flowers are also edible and can be used in salads or as a garnish.

Conclusion

The lifespan of chicory plants can vary significantly depending on the type of chicory, cultivation practices, and environmental conditions. By understanding the factors that affect chicory lifespan, growers can optimize their cultivation practices to maximize plant longevity and productivity.

Perennials

Heuchera ‘Palace Purple’: A Vibrant Ground Cover for Partial Shade | Easy Care and Growing Guide

by Donna July 12, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

Heuchera ‘Palace Purple’: A Vibrant Ground Cover for Partial Shade

Introduction

Heuchera ‘Palace Purple’ is a beautiful and easy-to-grow perennial that adds a splash of color to any garden. Its deep purple foliage and delicate salmon-pink flowers make it a standout choice for borders and containers.

Characteristics

Height: 15cm
Spread: 50cm
Foliage color: Deep purple
Flower color: Salmon-pink
Bloom time: Spring and summer

Growing Conditions

Heuchera ‘Palace Purple’ prefers partial shade and moist but well-drained soil. Avoid planting in dry or overly sunny areas, as this can scorch the leaves.

Care

Water regularly, especially during hot weather.
Cut back spent flowers to encourage new growth.
Tidy up foliage in autumn.
Mulch in spring with well-rotted manure or compost.
Divide clumps every three years to maintain vigor.

Benefits

Adds color and interest to borders and containers
Attracts pollinators
Low-maintenance and easy to grow
Tolerates a range of soil conditions

Where to Buy

Heuchera ‘Palace Purple’ is readily available from garden centers and nurseries. You may find a greater variety of sizes by shopping online.

Toxicity

Heuchera ‘Palace Purple’ is non-toxic to humans and animals.

Conclusion

Heuchera ‘Palace Purple’ is a versatile and attractive perennial that is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your garden. Its easy-care nature and vibrant foliage make it a great choice for gardeners of all levels.

Flower Gardening

Salvia ‘Amistad’: A Beautiful, Beneficial, and Pollinator-Attracting Plant

by Gregory June 1, 2024

written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Salvia ‘Amistad’: A Beautiful and Beneficial Plant

Introduction

Salvia ‘Amistad’ is a stunning perennial sage that adds beauty and benefits to any garden. With its showy purple flowers and attractive foliage, it’s a favorite of gardeners and pollinators alike.

Plant Characteristics

Height: 1.2 meters (4 feet)
Spread: 50 centimeters (20 inches)
Flower color: Deep purple
Foliage color: Green
Sun exposure: Dappled shade or full sun
Soil: Prefers rich, well-drained soil

Benefits of Growing Salvia ‘Amistad’

Attracts bees and other pollinators
Adds color and interest to borders and containers
Said to repel mildew and black spot on roses
Tolerates coastal and dry conditions
Makes an excellent cut flower

How to Grow Salvia ‘Amistad’

Choose a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained soil.
Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage flowering.
Mulch annually with compost or manure.
Don’t cut back flower stems in autumn; leave them intact to protect the plant from frost.
Cut back flower stems in spring after new growth emerges.

Tips for Buying Salvia ‘Amistad’

Look for healthy plants with no signs of damage or disease.
Ensure you have the right growing conditions before purchasing.
Consider buying online for a wider selection of sizes.

Companion Plants for Salvia ‘Amistad’

Roses
Dahlias
Bananas
Cannas

Additional Information

Salvia ‘Amistad’ is non-toxic to pets and humans.
The plant is known to attract other pollinators besides bees.
It can be grown in containers as well as in the ground.

Plants

Luzula Nivea (Snowy Woodrush): Growing Guide, Benefits, and Uses

by Gregory May 29, 2024

written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Luzula nivea: The Snowy Woodrush

Introduction

Luzula nivea, also known as snowy woodrush, is a unique and versatile plant that adds beauty and practicality to any garden. It’s an evergreen perennial that resembles grass but is actually a member of the rush family.

Characteristics

Height: Up to 60cm
Spread: Up to 45cm
Foliage: Rich, green leaves
Flowers: Pure white, held on tall stems in summer

Growing Conditions

Luzula nivea thrives in moist but well-drained soil. It can tolerate a range of sun exposure, from full sun to partial shade. However, it prefers moist soil conditions, particularly in sunny spots.

Uses

Snowy woodrush is commonly used as a groundcover or for edging paths, especially in shady areas. It’s a vigorous plant, so it’s important to keep it in check.

Planting and Maintenance

Plant in moist but well-drained soil in partial shade to full sun.
Divide congested colonies every three years, between mid-spring and midsummer.
Tidy up foliage in spring.

Buying Tips

Make sure you have the right growing conditions for Luzula nivea.
You may find it in your local garden center, but you’ll have a wider selection online.
Always check plants for signs of disease or damage before planting.

Wildlife Value and Toxicity

Luzula nivea has no known value to wildlife in the UK. It’s also non-toxic to humans and animals.

Gardening

How to Grow Achillea: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

by Gregory May 25, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

How to Grow Achillea: A Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Achillea, also known as yarrow, is a popular perennial plant known for its beautiful flowers and feathery foliage. It’s a versatile plant that can be grown in a variety of settings, including borders, wildlife gardens, and gravel gardens. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about growing achillea, from planting to propagation and care.

Choosing the Right Location

Achillea prefers well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it’s important to avoid waterlogged areas. Achilleas look great in the middle of an ornamental border or wildlife garden, and they’re also a good choice for growing in gravel gardens.

Planting Achillea

The best time to plant achillea is in spring. Dig a hole that is deeper and wider than the pot the plant came in. Add a handful of horticultural grit to the hole for added drainage. Place the plant in the hole, backfill with soil, and firm the soil around the plant. Water in well.

Caring for Achillea

Achilleas are relatively low-maintenance plants. Here are a few tips for keeping your plants healthy and blooming:

Cut back old foliage in spring.
Deadhead flowers throughout the summer to encourage more blooms.
Divide clumps every three to five years to revitalize the plants.
Water plants regularly, especially during hot weather.
Fertilize plants lightly in spring.

Propagating Achillea

The best way to propagate achillea is by division in spring. You can also take cuttings in early spring. To take cuttings, pull away new shoots, leaving a heel, and plant into potting compost with added sand. Your cuttings should form new roots after a few weeks and can be potted on into individual pots when the plants are well established.

Some varieties of achillea will self-seed, but the resulting plants may not be true to type. If you want to collect seeds, allow a few flowerheads to go to seed. You can sow the seeds in autumn or spring.

Problem Solving

Achilleas can suffer from aphids and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep plants well-watered and avoid overcrowding. If you do notice aphids or powdery mildew, treat the plants with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.

Five Great Achillea Varieties

There are many different varieties of achillea to choose from. Here are five of our favorites:

Achillea ‘Moonshine’: A variety with gray-green foliage and pretty light yellow flowers.
Achillea filipendulina ‘Cloth of Gold’: With light green foliage and deep golden blooms.
Achillea millefolium ‘Cerise Queen’: One of the pink varieties. The cerise flower heads have dark margins and paler coloring towards the center.
Achillea millefolium ‘Fanal’: The bright orange-red flowers with yellow eyes are very striking.
Achillea ‘Terracotta’: The beautiful blooms open orange and fade to yellow with age.

Conclusion

Achillea is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that can add a touch of color and interest to any garden. With its long blooming period and variety of colors and forms, achillea is a great choice for both beginners and experienced gardeners alike.

Gardening with Perennials

Growing Ajuga Reptan: A Guide to Planting, Care, and Control

by Donna May 4, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

Growing Ajuga Reptan

What is Ajuga Reptan?

Ajuga reptans, also known as bugle or bugleweed, is a beautiful ground cover plant with dark blue flowers that bloom in spring. It also has attractive evergreen foliage in green, red, bronze, or burgundy. Ajuga is a versatile plant that can be used in containers or as a ground cover in shady areas.

How to Grow Ajuga Reptan

Plant in spring or autumn in moist but well-drained soil in partial shade.
Divide clumps in early spring or autumn if the plant becomes overgrown.
Water regularly until established.
Keep plants healthy with regular watering and good drainage to prevent powdery mildew.

Controlling the Spread of Ajuga Reptan

Ajuga reptans can spread rapidly by producing runners. To control its spread:

Plant it in a location where it is restricted by a path or edging.
Cut back any runners that are trailing out of the desired area.

Varieties of Ajuga Reptan

There are many varieties of Ajuga reptans to choose from, including:

‘Alba’: white flowers, green leaves
‘Burgundy Glow’: red and white leaves, deep blue flowers
‘Black Scallop’: dark purple leaves, dark blue flowers
‘Braunherz’: bronze-purple leaves, dark blue flowers

Where to Buy Ajuga Reptan

Ajuga plants are available in garden centers, nurseries, and online retailers.

Tips for Growing Ajuga Reptan

Choose a variety that is suitable for your space and color scheme.
Plant in a location where it will receive partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Water regularly until established, and divide clumps every few years to keep plants healthy and prevent overcrowding.
Control the spread of Ajuga by planting it in a contained area or by cutting back runners.

Perennials

Lady’s Mantle: A Versatile and Easy-to-Grow Perennial with Medicinal Uses

by Gregory April 30, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Lady’s Mantle: A Versatile and Easy-to-Grow Perennial

Lady’s mantle, also known as Alchemilla mollis, is a popular and easy-to-grow hardy herbaceous perennial. It is a versatile plant that thrives in a wide range of soils and situations, making it a great choice for gardeners of all levels. Lady’s mantle also has a long history of medicinal uses, primarily for menstrual disorders and other female problems.

Medicinal Uses of Lady’s Mantle

Lady’s mantle has been used for centuries to treat menstrual and menopausal disorders, as well as inflammation. It is still prescribed by herbalists today. However, it is important to note that, as with all herbal medicines, you should only take lady’s mantle as advised by a qualified herbalist.

Growing Lady’s Mantle

Planting

Lady’s mantle can be planted at any time of year, but autumn or spring are ideal. If planting in groups, allow 30-45cm between plants. Water well after planting, especially if planting during the growing season.

Care

Lady’s mantle is a low-maintenance plant that needs little care once established. Water regularly during dry spells, and fertilize lightly in spring. Cut back faded stems after flowering to prevent self-seeding. If the plant is looking straggly, cut stems to the ground to encourage fresh new growth. Once growth has died back in autumn, cut to ground level.

Propagation

Lady’s mantle can be propagated by division in autumn or early spring. Dig up the clump and split into good-sized pieces, each with plenty of roots and shoot buds. Replant at the same depth as growing previously, into soil which has been improved with compost or soil conditioner.

Problem Solving

Lady’s mantle is generally pest- and disease-free. However, it can sometimes be affected by slugs and snails. To prevent this, keep the area around the plants clear of debris, and apply slug and snail bait if necessary.

Buying Lady’s Mantle

Lady’s mantle is widely available from nurseries, garden centres, and online suppliers. Plants are available in several sizes, from 9cm pots up to 2 litre pots. During the dormant season, purchase plants as bare rooted clumps.

Conclusion

Lady’s mantle is a beautiful and versatile plant that is easy to grow and care for. It is a great choice for gardeners of all levels, and its medicinal properties make it a valuable addition to any herbal medicine cabinet.

Gardening

Mazus Groundcover: A Versatile and Low-Maintenance Plant for Your Garden

by Gregory April 23, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Mazus Groundcover: A Tiny Plant with a Big Impact

Introduction

Mazus groundcover is a small but mighty plant that can add a touch of beauty and functionality to your garden. This tiny perennial forms a dense mat of foliage that stays green throughout most of the year, and it’s dotted with delicate blue flowers in the summer. Mazus is also a low-maintenance plant that’s easy to grow and care for, making it a great choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners alike.

How to Grow Mazus Groundcover

Mazus groundcover is a versatile plant that can be grown in a variety of locations and conditions. It prefers full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil, but it can also tolerate moderate to high moisture levels. Mazus is also hardy to USDA plant hardiness zones 5 through 7 or 8, making it a good choice for gardeners in a wide range of climates.

To grow mazus groundcover, simply plant the plugs or seeds in the desired location and water them well. Mazus will quickly spread to fill in bare spots, forming a dense mat of foliage. You can also grow mazus in shaped patches by using barriers to stop the spread.

Mazus Reptans Care

Mazus groundcover is a low-maintenance plant that requires very little care. It may not require annual fertilization, but if necessary, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring. Mazus is also drought-tolerant, but it will benefit from regular watering during hot, dry weather.

One of the best things about mazus groundcover is that it is seldom bothered by pests or diseases. However, it is important to keep the plants clean and free of debris to prevent problems.

Uses for Mazus Groundcover

Mazus groundcover is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of ways in the garden. It is a great choice for groundcover in small areas, such as between steppingstones or in rock gardens. Mazus can also be used to fill in bare spots in the lawn or to create a shaped patch in the garden.

Benefits of Mazus Groundcover

Mazus groundcover offers a number of benefits for gardeners, including:

Low-maintenance: Mazus is a low-maintenance plant that requires very little care.
Drought-tolerant: Mazus is drought-tolerant and will survive even in hot, dry weather.
Pest- and disease-resistant: Mazus is seldom bothered by pests or diseases.
Versatile: Mazus can be used in a variety of ways in the garden, including as groundcover, in rock gardens, and in shaped patches.

Conclusion

Mazus groundcover is a beautiful and versatile plant that is easy to grow and care for. It is a great choice for gardeners of all levels of experience and can be used in a variety of ways in the garden.

Newer Posts

Older Posts