Achillea ‘Sassy Summer Sunset’

Description

Achillea ‘Sassy Summer Sunset’ is a striking perennial known for its vibrant orange flowerheads and finely cut grey-green foliage. This hardy plant adds a bold splash of colour to your garden throughout the summer and is an excellent choice for a variety of garden styles.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time:

• Spring: Achillea ‘Sassy Summer Sunset’ should be planted in spring as the soil warms up. This timing helps the plant establish a robust root system, ensuring strong growth and vibrant blooms throughout the growing season.
• Autumn: Planting in autumn can also be advantageous. This allows the plant to settle in before winter, leading to a vigorous start in the spring.

Site Selection:

• Sunlight: Achillea ‘Sassy Summer Sunset’ thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. This ensures the plant develops its best colour and blooms profusely.
• Soil: Choose well-drained soil. While it can adapt to various soil types, including sandy and poor soils, proper drainage is essential to prevent root rot.

Planting Instructions:

• Preparing the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice the width and the same depth as the root ball,
• Soil Preparation: Improve soil quality by mixing in compost or organic matter to enhance drainage and fertility.
• Planting: Place Achillea ‘Sassy Summer Sunset’ in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill with the amended soil and press down gently to eliminate air pockets.
• Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the roots.

Watering:

• Growing Season: Once established, Achillea ‘Sassy Summer Sunset’ is drought-tolerant. During extended dry periods, occasional watering will help maintain plant health and bloom production.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering as the plant goes dormant. Ensure the soil remains slightly moist but avoid waterlogging.

Feeding:

• Spring: Achillea ‘Sassy Summer Sunset’ typically requires minimal feeding. Apply a light, balanced fertiliser in early spring to support growth and enhance flowering.
• Mid-Summer: A second light feeding after the initial bloom cycle can help sustain flowering and improve plant vigour.

Pruning:

• After Flowering: Regularly deadhead spent blooms to encourage new flowers and keep the plant looking tidy.
• Late 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 help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
• Winter: Mulch can also provide insulation for the plant’s roots during colder months, protecting them from severe frost.

Supporting the Plant:

• Staking: Although Achillea ‘Sassy Summer Sunset’ has sturdy stems, staking may be beneficial in windy areas to prevent the plant from bending or flopping.

Winter Care:

• Protection: In regions with harsh winters, use additional mulch or garden fleece to protect from extreme cold and frost damage.

Final Tips: Achillea ‘Sassy Summer Sunset’ is a resilient, low-maintenance perennial that brings a vibrant burst of orange to your garden. Its ability to attract bees and butterflies makes it a fantastic choice for a wildlife-friendly garden. With its dramatic blooms and easy care, Achillea ‘Sassy Summer Sunset’ will enhance your garden’s beauty and colour throughout the growing season.

 

 

RHS Details

See more Achillea from Proctors Nursery