Achillea millefolium ‘Pretty Woman’

Description

Achillea millefolium ‘Pretty Woman’ is a striking perennial that brings long-lasting colour to garden borders with its rich-red flowers fading to rust-red as they age. Flowering from June to September and loved by pollinators, this compact plant is ideal for cottage gardens, gravel borders, or wildlife-friendly spaces. Follow this detailed guide to ensure your Achillea millefolium ‘Pretty Woman’ thrives year after year.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Achillea millefolium ‘Pretty Woman’ in spring once the soil is workable and beginning to warm. This gives the roots time to establish before flowering begins.
• Autumn: Alternatively, plant in early autumn. This allows your Achillea to settle in and develop a strong root system before the cooler months.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Choose a site in full sun to light partial shade. Achillea millefolium ‘Pretty Woman’ flourishes best with plenty of sunlight, which encourages dense flowering and vibrant colour.
• Soil: Achillea prefers well-drained soil. It can tolerate poor soils but benefits from the addition of compost or grit to improve drainage and prevent waterlogging.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth. This gives roots the space they need to spread comfortably.
2. Soil Preparation: Improve the planting area by mixing in compost or organic matter to support growth. Achillea does not require rich soil but does benefit from aerated conditions.
3. Planting: Place the plant into the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill and firm the soil gently.
4. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, as Achillea is drought-tolerant once established.

Watering Requirements

• During Growth: Water moderately during extended dry periods. Achillea prefers drier conditions and does not thrive in waterlogged soil.
• Dormant Period: Minimal watering is required during dormancy. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry.

Feeding

• Apply a light, balanced fertiliser in early spring to promote healthy growth. Achillea generally does well without heavy feeding and too much fertiliser may reduce flower production.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Deadheading: Remove faded flowers regularly to prolong blooming and maintain a tidy appearance. This will encourage your Achillea to produce fresh flower heads throughout summer.
• Cutting Back: After the flowering season ends, cut back the plant to just above ground level. This rejuvenates the plant and prepares it for strong growth the following season.

Mulching

• Apply mulch in spring around the base of Achillea millefolium ‘Pretty Woman’ to suppress weeds and retain moisture. Use materials like bark chips, compost, or well-rotted manure, avoiding contact with the crown to prevent rot.

Supporting the Plant

• Achillea typically maintains an upright habit, but in particularly exposed or windy locations, light staking may be helpful to support the stems.

Final Tips

Achillea millefolium ‘Pretty Woman’ is a hardy, low-maintenance perennial perfect for gardeners seeking long-lasting colour and pollinator appeal. Its tolerance for dry soil and sun makes it a reliable choice for many settings. With the right care and placement, Achillea will return every year with bold, bee-friendly blooms and minimal effort.