Agastache aurantiaca ‘Tango’

Description

Agastache aurantiaca ‘Tango’ is a compact perennial that will add vibrant fiery orange blooms to your garden from midsummer through autumn. Known for its upright flower spikes and fragrant foliage, this hardy plant attracts bees and butterflies, making it an ideal choice for any garden. Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure your Agastache aurantiaca ‘Tango’ thrives throughout the year.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The best time to plant Agastache aurantiaca ‘Tango’ is in spring when the soil begins to warm. Planting during this time allows the roots to establish well before the flowering season, helping the plant grow healthy and strong.
• Autumn: You can also plant Agastache in early autumn. This gives the plant time to settle into its new spot before the colder weather, promoting robust growth the following spring.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Agastache aurantiaca ‘Tango’ thrives in full sun. To encourage optimal growth and flower production, choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
• Soil: Agastache prefers well-drained soil and will not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Ensure the soil has good drainage to avoid root rot. To enhance soil quality, consider incorporating organic matter like compost to improve drainage and fertility.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of your Agastache aurantiaca ‘Tango’. This ensures there is plenty of room for the roots to spread comfortably.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix in some compost or organic matter to improve the fertility and drainage of the soil. Agastache benefits from nutrient-rich soil, which promotes healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
3. Planting: Place the plant into the prepared hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with soil, firming it gently to eliminate air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting. This helps to settle the soil around the roots and encourages better root establishment. Make sure the area drains well to avoid waterlogging.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Agastache aurantiaca ‘Tango’ is drought-tolerant once established. Water the plant during dry spells, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as excess moisture can lead to root rot.
• Dormant Season: During the dormant season, reduce watering significantly. Only water the plant if the soil becomes extremely dry, as Agastache aurantiaca ‘Tango’ requires minimal moisture during this period.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to give your Agastache a strong start to the growing season. This helps encourage healthy new growth and vibrant flowers.
• Mid-Summer: A light feeding in mid-summer can help sustain the plant’s vigour and encourage continued blooming. Be cautious not to overfeed, as too much fertiliser can promote excessive foliage growth instead of flowers.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly deadhead your Agastache by removing spent flowers. This will keep the plant looking tidy and encourage more blooms throughout the growing season.
• Autumn Pruning: After the last flowers have faded in autumn, cut the plant back to ground level. This prepares the plant for winter dormancy and helps it grow back strong the following spring.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of Agastache aurantiaca ‘Tango’ in the spring. This helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Winter: In colder months, mulch around the base of the plant to protect the roots from harsh winter temperatures. This will help prevent frost heaving and ensure that the plant survives through to the next growing season.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Agastache aurantiaca ‘Tango’ has a compact, upright growth habit, so it typically does not require staking. However, in areas with strong winds, consider using plant supports to keep the plant upright and avoid damage.

Final Tips

Agastache aurantiaca ‘Tango’ is a low-maintenance, hardy perennial that adds vibrant colour and fragrance to your garden. By planting it in full sun, ensuring good drainage, and following the watering and feeding recommendations, your Agastache will thrive and continue to bloom throughout the summer and autumn. Its ability to attract bees and butterflies makes it a valuable addition to any pollinator-friendly garden. With minimal care, this Agastache will bring beauty and vibrancy to your outdoor space for years to come.