Achillea millefolium ‘Pretty Belinda’

Description

Achillea millefolium ‘Pretty Belinda’ is a charming perennial known for its bright pink flowers that transition to a soft pink with age. Its finely cut grey-green leaves and hardy nature make it a favourite for adding vibrant colour and texture to gardens.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Achillea millefolium ‘Pretty Belinda’ in spring to allow it to establish before the growing season intensifies.
• Autumn: Alternatively, autumn planting provides an opportunity for the plant to settle in before the new growing season.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Achillea millefolium ‘Pretty Belinda’ thrives in full sun to part shade. Ensure the site receives ample sunlight to promote vibrant flowering.
• Soil: Choose well-drained soil for Achillea millefolium ‘Pretty Belinda’. It adapts to various soil types but good drainage is essential to prevent root rot and support robust growth.

Planting Instructions

• Preparing the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball of the plant and as deep as the root system.
• Soil Preparation: Enhance soil quality by mixing in compost or organic matter to improve drainage and provide essential nutrients.
• Planting: Position your Achillea in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill with soil and firm gently.
• Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the roots.

Watering

• Growing Season: Once established, Achillea is drought tolerant. Water during dry spells to maintain flower production but avoid overwatering.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. Keep soil slightly moist but ensure it is not waterlogged.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support the initial growth of the plant.
• Mid-Summer: Fertilise again after the first bloom to encourage continued flowering.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to extend the blooming period and maintain a tidy appearance.
• Autumn: Cut back the plant to ground level after the final bloom to prepare it for winter.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the plant in spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Winter: Use mulch in winter to protect roots from severe cold and to stabilise soil conditions.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Achillea millefolium ‘Pretty Belinda’ generally has sturdy stems but may benefit from staking in windy areas to prevent damage.

Final Tips

Achillea millefolium ‘Pretty Belinda’ is a versatile and low-maintenance perennial that adds a splash of colour and elegance to your garden. Its long-lasting, fading-pink blooms and attractiveness to pollinators make it an excellent choice for creating a vibrant, wildlife-friendly garden. With proper care, your Achillea will continue to flourish, bringing beauty and charm to your outdoor space throughout the growing season.

RHS Details

See more Achillea from Proctors