With over 20 varieties of Heuchera there is sure to be something that takes your fancy. These shade loving plants mainly grown for their foliage that comes in a huge selection of colours. However, they do bear attractive flowers during the summer months as well. Heucheras work very well as ground cover. All our Heucheras are garden ready, well-established plants that are available for delivery nationwide across the UK.
Heuchera, also known as Coral Bells or Alumroot, is a versatile and vibrant perennial that adds colour and texture to gardens. Follow this comprehensive planting guide to ensure the successful establishment and continuous beauty of your Heuchera plants.
Site Selection
Sunlight Requirements: Plant Heuchera in locations with filtered sunlight to partial shade. Some varieties tolerate more sun, but protection from intense afternoon sun is generally beneficial.
Spring or Autumn: Plant Heuchera in the spring or autumn for optimal root establishment. Avoid planting during extreme weather conditions.
Planting Process
Planting Depth: Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the Heuchera plant. Plant at the same depth as it was in the container. Ensure the crown is just above the soil surface.
Spacing: Space Heuchera plants according to the specific variety, generally around 12 to 18 inches apart.
Watering
Regular Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first growing season. Once established, Heuchera is relatively drought-tolerant, but consistent moisture is beneficial.
Mulching
Mulch Application: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of Heuchera plants. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and insulate the roots.
Fertilisation
Spring Feeding: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in the spring as new growth emerges. Avoid excessive fertilisation to prevent overly lush growth.
Pruning
Trimming Spent Flowers: Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Trim back any damaged or unsightly foliage throughout the growing season.
Winter Care
Mulch Protection: In colder climates, apply a thicker layer of mulch around Heuchera plants in late autumn to protect the roots from freezing temperatures.
Division
Every Few Years: Heuchera benefits from division every few years to maintain vigour. Divide clumps in the spring or autumn.
Pest and Disease Management
Pest Inspection: Keep an eye out for pests like aphids or spider mites. Treat promptly if detected.
Good Air Circulation: Ensure good air circulation around plants to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Container Planting
Well-Draining Containers: If planting in containers, use a well-draining potting mix. Ensure the container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil.
Enjoy the Foliage
Foliage Appreciation: Heuchera is prized for its colourful and unique foliage. Enjoy the array of colours and textures it adds to your garden.
By following this planting guide, you’ll create an optimal environment for your Heuchera plants to thrive. Customise care based on your local conditions and the specific variety you’ve chosen.
Congratulations on successfully planting your vibrant Heuchera (Coral Bells or Alumroot) plants! To ensure their continued health, vigour, and striking foliage, follow this aftercare guide:
Watering
Consistent Moisture: Heuchera appreciates consistent moisture, especially during the first growing season. While it becomes more drought-tolerant once established, regular watering ensures optimal performance.
Avoid Waterlogging: Ensure well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Adjust watering frequency based on weather conditions and the moisture level of the soil.
Mulching
Mulch Maintenance: Maintain a layer of organic mulch around the base of Heuchera plants. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and insulate the roots. Refresh the mulch as needed.
Fertilisation
Balanced Feeding: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in the spring as new growth emerges. Heuchera doesn’t require heavy feeding, so avoid excessive fertilisation to prevent overly lush growth.
Pruning
Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Trim back any damaged or unsightly foliage throughout the growing season. In late autumn, cut back the entire plant to rejuvenate it.
Winter Care
Mulch Protection: In colder climates, provide additional mulch around Heuchera plants in late autumn. This helps protect the roots from freezing temperatures.
Winter Mulching: If you experience severe winter conditions, consider applying a layer of straw or additional mulch to provide insulation.
Division
Every Few Years: To maintain plant vigour, consider dividing Heuchera clumps every few years. Spring or autumn is the ideal time for division.
Pest and Disease Management
Regular Inspection: Keep a close eye on your Heuchera plants for signs of pests, such as aphids or spider mites. Treat promptly if detected.
Air Circulation: Ensure good air circulation around the plants to minimise the risk of fungal diseases. Avoid overcrowding by providing adequate spacing.
Container Planting
Container Check: If planted in containers, check for soil compactness. Repot every few years to refresh the soil and prevent root congestion.
Adaptation to Local Conditions
Observation: Regularly observe your Heuchera plants for any signs of stress or changes in growth patterns. Adjust care practices based on your observations and local weather conditions.
Enjoy the Foliage
Year-Round Appeal: Appreciate the unique and colourful foliage of Heuchera throughout the year. These plants offer visual interest even when not in bloom.
Adapt these guidelines to your specific local conditions and the Heuchera variety you have chosen to ensure the ongoing health and beauty of these remarkable perennials.
While we take great care to provide healthy and resilient specimens, it’s important to recognise that certain factors, particularly extreme weather conditions, are beyond our control. Events like severe frost, prolonged heatwaves, high winds, or exceptionally heavy rainfall can impact the health of your Heuchera plants.
Our Advice
Weather Monitoring: Regularly check local weather forecasts, especially during extreme weather events. Stay informed about potential weather challenges that may affect your Heuchera.
Protective Measures: Consider implementing protective measures during extreme conditions. This may include providing temporary shading during intense heat or covering plants during unexpected frost.
Aftermath Assessment: Following extreme weather events, carefully assess the condition of your Heuchera plants. If damage occurs, follow appropriate care steps, including pruning damaged parts and adjusting watering routines.
Limitations
Natural Variables: Heuchera plants, like any living organisms, are influenced by natural variables. Extreme weather events are inherent risks that may impact plant health despite best care practices.
No Guarantee: Due to the unpredictable nature of extreme weather, we cannot guarantee the outcome of your Heuchera’s response to such conditions. Plants may exhibit stress or damage beyond our control.
Customer Responsibility
Preventive Measures: We strongly encourage you to take proactive measures based on weather forecasts and to implement protective strategies to minimise potential harm during extreme weather.
Adaptation: Recognise that Heuchera plants, while generally hardy, may respond differently to various weather conditions. Adapt care practices accordingly and be prepared to address any adverse effects.
Contact Us
If you have specific concerns or questions related to extreme weather impacts on your Heuchera plants, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to offer guidance and support within the scope of our expertise.
Email: info@proctorsnursery.co.uk
Note: This disclaimer serves to acknowledge the unpredictability of extreme weather events and the associated risks to Heuchera plants. Your understanding, proactive care, and prompt communication are essential to ensuring the well-being of your garden.
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