Agastache cana ‘Heatwave’

Description

Agastache cana ‘Heatwave’ is a striking perennial with fiery orange flowers and fragrant foliage that attracts bees and butterflies. Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure your Agastache cana ‘Heatwave’ thrives in your garden throughout the growing season.

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The ideal time to plant Agastache cana ‘Heatwave’ is in spring when the soil has warmed up. This gives the plant time to establish its roots before the flowering period.
• Autumn: Alternatively, planting Agastache in early autumn can also work well. This gives the plant time to settle in before the colder months and encourages stronger growth in the following spring.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Agastache cana ‘Heatwave’ thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day for the best growth and abundant flowering.
• Soil: Ensure well-drained soil for Agastache. This plant does not tolerate waterlogged soil, so good drainage is crucial. Improve soil fertility and drainage by adding compost or organic matter.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole for Agastache cana ‘Heatwave’ that is twice the width and the same depth as the root ball. This allows the roots to expand comfortably.
2. Soil Preparation: Add organic matter, such as compost, to the soil. This will improve the soil structure, enhance nutrient availability, and encourage vigorous growth of Agastache cana ‘Heatwave’.
3. Planting: Place the root ball in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Gently backfill the hole, firming the soil to eliminate any air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Thoroughly water Agastache cana ‘Heatwave’ after planting to settle the soil around the roots and encourage establishment.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Agastache is moderately drought-tolerant. Water during dry spells but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the soil drains well.
• Dormant Season: During the dormant period, reduce watering significantly. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry, as Agastache requires minimal moisture when not actively growing.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to provide Agastache cana ‘Heatwave’ with the nutrients it needs to kickstart healthy growth. This supports vigorous leaf and flower production.
• Mid-Summer: Consider a light feeding in mid-summer to encourage continued flowering and ensure your Agastache maintains its vitality throughout the blooming season.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers. This will prolong the blooming period, keep the plant tidy, and encourage new flowers to develop.
• Autumn Pruning: After the blooming season, cut back your Agastache to the ground. This prepares the plant for winter dormancy and helps promote healthier growth in the spring.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your Agastache in spring to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Winter: In colder climates, add mulch around the plant in winter to protect the roots from freezing temperatures and prevent frost damage.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Agastache cana ‘Heatwave’ has strong, upright stems, so staking is typically unnecessary. However, if planted in windy areas, you may want to provide some support to prevent damage.

Final Tips

Agastache cana ‘Heatwave’ is a hardy perennial that attracts bees and butterflies, making it a great addition to any garden. By following this planting guide, including planting in full sun and ensuring well-drained soil, your Agastache will reward you with stunning fiery orange flowers and fragrant foliage from June to October. Incorporate this beautiful and beneficial plant into your garden for a stunning display of colour and wildlife attraction throughout the season.