Allium hollandicum ‘Cliffs of Dover’

Description

Allium hollandicum ‘Cliffs of Dover’ is a hardy, bulbous perennial that produces striking white, star-shaped flowers on tall, upright stems. It makes a beautiful addition to any garden, adding height and texture with its elegant blooms in late summer. Follow this guide to ensure your Allium thrives in your garden.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Time to Plant

The optimal time to plant Allium hollandicum ‘Cliffs of Dover’ bulbs is in the autumn. Planting in autumn allows the bulbs to establish roots before the colder months, setting them up for healthy growth and beautiful blooms in late summer. Ensure the soil is loose and well-drained when planting the bulbs.

Ideal Site Selection

Allium hollandicum ‘Cliffs of Dover’ flourishes in locations that receive full sunlight. Select a spot that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for the best flowering results. Good drainage is key, as this plant does not tolerate soggy soil. If your soil tends to hold water, improve drainage by incorporating compost or grit.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Soil: Loosen the soil to about 10-15 cm deep, adding organic matter like compost to enhance drainage and fertility.
2. Planting Depth: Dig a hole 10-15 cm deep—three times the height of the bulb. This helps protect the bulb and ensures healthy growth.
3. Planting the Bulbs: Place each bulb with the pointed end facing up, then cover with soil and gently firm the surface. Water well to settle the soil, but take care not to overwater.

Watering and Fertilising

Allium hollandicum ‘Cliffs of Dover’ is drought-tolerant once established. After planting, water moderately to help the bulbs establish. During the growing season, only water if the soil becomes very dry, allowing it to dry out between watering sessions. Avoid waterlogged soil as this can cause bulb rot.

Fertilising is not essential but can promote stronger blooms. In early spring, apply a balanced fertiliser to give Allium hollandicum ‘Cliffs of Dover’ a boost as it prepares to grow and flower.

Pruning and Deadheading

Once Allium hollandicum ‘Cliffs of Dover’ has finished blooming, you can leave the seed heads intact as they offer structural interest in the garden. However, if you prefer a tidier look, deadhead the flowers by cutting spent blooms. The foliage will naturally die back after flowering, allowing the bulb to store energy for the next season. Wait until the leaves have fully withered before cutting them back.

Mulching and Winter Protection

Allium hollandicum ‘Cliffs of Dover’ is hardy, but mulching around the bulbs after planting can help insulate them during winter. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as compost or bark chips, to protect the bulbs from extreme cold and to retain moisture in the soil.

Pests and Diseases

Allium hollandicum ‘Cliffs of Dover’ is rarely troubled by pests and diseases. Its strong scent helps deter common garden pests, and it is typically left alone by deer and rabbits. However, it is important to avoid overly wet conditions, which can cause rot in the bulbs.

Final Tips for Growing Allium hollandicum ‘Cliffs of Dover’

Allium hollandicum ‘Cliffs of Dover’ is a versatile, low-maintenance plant that adds elegance to sunny borders and garden beds. Planting in well-drained soil, spacing bulbs appropriately, and avoiding overwatering are key to its success. This plant pairs beautifully with other summer perennials, providing an eye-catching display of white blooms in late summer. Incorporate Allium hollandicum ‘Cliffs of Dover’ into your garden for a stunning, low-maintenance focal point.

By following these care tips, your Allium will flourish and provide striking blooms year after year.

RHS Details

See more Allium from Proctors