Leucanthemum ‘White Lion’

Description

Leucanthemum ‘White Lion’ is a beautiful clump-forming perennial, producing masses of clear-white daisy-like flowers with vibrant yellow centres. This compact variety grows to a height of 25cm with a spread of 30cm, making it perfect for borders, rock gardens, and container displays. Flowering from June to September, Leucanthemum ‘White Lion’ is a reliable and hardy plant that thrives in various garden settings.

PLANTING AND AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The ideal time to plant Leucanthemum ‘White Lion’ is in spring when the soil begins to warm. This allows the roots to establish before the growing season, ensuring healthy development and abundant flowering.
• Autumn: Alternatively, planting in early autumn enables the plant to settle in before dormancy, promoting strong root growth for a vigorous display the following year.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Leucanthemum ‘White Lion’ flourishes in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. For optimal flowering, select a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil is essential for Leucanthemum ‘White Lion’. Avoid heavy, waterlogged conditions by incorporating organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil texture and drainage.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Planting Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth to allow ample space for root expansion.
2. Soil Enrichment: Mix organic matter into the soil to enhance fertility and improve drainage, ensuring a nutrient-rich environment for Leucanthemum ‘White Lion’.
3. Planting: Position the plant in the hole with the top of the root ball level with the surrounding soil. Backfill gently, firming the soil around the base to eliminate air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and support root establishment.

Watering Requirements

• During Growth: Once established, Leucanthemum ‘White Lion’ is relatively drought-tolerant. Water regularly during dry spells, allowing the soil to dry slightly between watering sessions to prevent root rot.
• During Dormancy: In the dormant season, reduce watering significantly, only applying water if the soil becomes excessively dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support healthy new growth and enhance flower production.
• Mid-Summer: A light feeding in mid-summer will help sustain blooms and encourage prolonged flowering.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming and maintain a tidy appearance.
• Autumn Pruning: After the final blooms fade, cut back the foliage to ground level. This helps rejuvenate Leucanthemum ‘White Lion’ for strong growth in the next season.

Mulching

• Spring Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of Leucanthemum ‘White Lion’ in spring to conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Winter Protection: In colder conditions, an additional layer of mulch provides insulation, protecting roots from extreme temperatures.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Leucanthemum ‘White Lion’ has sturdy stems and generally does not require staking. However, in particularly windy locations, light staking may help prevent stem breakage.

Final Tips Leucanthemum ‘White Lion’ is an easy-to-grow perennial that delivers a long-lasting floral display from early summer to autumn. By selecting a sunny, well-drained site and maintaining a simple care routine, this plant will reward you with its bright, cheerful blooms season after season. Incorporate Leucanthemum ‘White Lion’ into your garden for a low-maintenance yet striking addition that attracts pollinators and enhances your outdoor space beautifully.