Agastache aurantiaca ‘Apricot Sprite’

Description

Agastache aurantiaca ‘Apricot Sprite’ is a stunning perennial known for its apricot-coloured flowers and fragrant foliage. A magnet for bees and butterflies, this plant is ideal for adding a vibrant pop of colour to your garden.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Time to Plant

For optimal growth, Agastache aurantiaca ‘Apricot Sprite’ should be planted in the spring when the soil begins to warm. This timing allows the plant to establish strong roots before the flowering season. Alternatively, planting in early autumn is also suitable, as it gives the plant time to settle before it goes dormant. By spring, your Agastache will be ready for vigorous growth and stunning blooms.

Choosing the Right Location

When selecting a site, ensure that Agastache aurantiaca ‘Apricot Sprite’ receives plenty of direct sunlight—at least 6 hours per day. Full sun is essential for this plant to maintain its bright, apricot-colored flowers throughout the growing season.

Equally important is soil quality. Agastache thrives in well-drained soil. The plant cannot tolerate standing water, so improving drainage by mixing in organic matter like compost or grit is crucial to prevent root rot.

How to Plant Agastache aurantiaca ‘Apricot Sprite’

1. Prepare the Planting Area: Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and as deep as the plant’s roots. This will allow the plant to spread its roots comfortably and establish well in its new location.
2. Soil Enrichment: Mix compost or other organic matter into the soil to improve its nutrient content and drainage. Agastache aurantiaca ‘Apricot Sprite’ benefits from nutrient-rich soil, which encourages healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
3. Planting: Place your Agastache in the prepared hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Gently backfill, firming the soil to remove any air pockets that might hinder root growth.
4. Watering: After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil. Be sure the site drains well, as excess water can lead to root damage.

Watering Needs

Agastache aurantiaca ‘Apricot Sprite’ is relatively drought-tolerant once established, but it does need regular watering during its first growing season. Water moderately during dry periods, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent waterlogging.

During the dormant season, significantly reduce watering, only giving the plant moisture if the soil becomes extremely dry. Agastache needs minimal water during this time.

Feeding Schedule

For the best results, apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to encourage healthy new growth. Feeding Agastache aurantiaca ‘Apricot Sprite’ again in mid-summer will support continued flowering and ensure the plant stays vigourous throughout its blooming season.

Pruning Tips

1. Deadheading: To prolong the blooming period, regularly deadhead your Agastache by removing spent flowers. This encourages the plant to produce more blooms and keeps it looking tidy throughout the season.
2. Autumn Pruning: After the final blooms have faded in autumn, cut back the plant to ground level. This prepares the plant for dormancy and encourages healthy growth when it re-sprouts in spring.

Mulching for Healthier Growth

Mulching is highly beneficial for Agastache aurantiaca ‘Apricot Sprite’. In spring, apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain a stable soil temperature.

As winter approaches, mulch again to insulate the roots and prevent frost heaving. This protection helps your Agastache survive cold conditions and emerge strong in the following growing season.

Plant Support

Agastache aurantiaca ‘Apricot Sprite’ generally has sturdy stems and does not usually require staking. However, in areas exposed to strong winds, staking may be necessary to prevent the plant from toppling over.

Final Tips

With its fragrant foliage, pollinator-attracting blooms, and long flowering season, Agastache aurantiaca ‘Apricot Sprite’ is a low-maintenance perennial that will brighten any garden. Plant it in full sun and well-drained soil, follow this simple care routine, and enjoy a stunning display of apricot-coloured flowers from midsummer through autumn.

 

RHS Details

See more Agastache from Proctors