Ajuga reptans ‘Burgundy Glow’

Description

Ajuga reptans ‘Burgundy Glow’ is a vibrant, creeping perennial that brings a striking mix of red, bronze, and cream foliage, accented with light blue flowers. This plant is ideal for ground cover, adding beauty to garden beds, borders, and containers. To ensure your Ajuga reptans ‘Burgundy Glow’ thrives, follow these detailed planting and care instructions.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

Spring: For the best results, plant Ajuga reptans ‘Burgundy Glow’ in spring. The warming soil allows the roots to establish and encourages healthy growth throughout the growing season.

Autumn: If planting in early autumn, Ajuga will have ample time to settle before winter dormancy, ensuring a strong return in spring.

Site Selection

Sunlight: Ajuga reptans ‘Burgundy Glow’ performs best in partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler areas. Too much direct sunlight in hotter conditions may scorch its delicate foliage, so choose a location with filtered light for optimal growth.

Soil: Well-drained, moist soil is key for your Ajuga. It will tolerate a variety of soil types, but ensuring good drainage is essential to prevent waterlogged conditions, which can harm the plant’s roots. Improve poor drainage by adding compost or grit to the planting area.

Planting Instructions

Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole that’s slightly wider and as deep as the root ball. Ajuga spreads over time, so leave enough space between plants—around 30-40 cm apart.

Soil Preparation: Mix organic compost into the soil before planting to boost nutrient levels and enhance moisture retention, helping Ajuga reptans ‘Burgundy Glow’ establish quickly.

Planting: Place the plant in the prepared hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Gently backfill and firm the soil around the roots.

Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and remove any air pockets. Make sure the area drains well to avoid waterlogged conditions.

Watering Requirements

Growing Season: During the active growing season, keep the soil consistently moist. Ajuga reptans ‘Burgundy Glow’ prefers moisture, but avoid overwatering. Let the top layer of soil dry slightly between watering sessions.

Dormant Season: In the winter months, reduce watering frequency. Ajuga requires minimal water when dormant and can survive on natural rainfall.

Feeding

Spring: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring to support healthy foliage growth and vibrant flower production. This will also help Ajuga reptans ‘Burgundy Glow’ maintain its striking colours throughout the season.

Mid-Summer: A light top dressing of compost or a balanced liquid feed can further enhance its performance, especially if the plant is looking a bit tired.

Pruning and Maintenance

Deadheading: Although Ajuga reptans ‘Burgundy Glow’ does not require extensive deadheading, removing faded flower spikes can encourage a tidier appearance and may prolong the blooming period.

Pruning: In late autumn, you can trim back any leggy or damaged foliage to keep the plant looking neat and to encourage fresh growth in spring.

Mulching

Spring: Apply an organic mulch, such as bark chips or compost, around the base of the plant in spring. This helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weed growth.

Winter: During winter, mulch around the base of the plant to protect its roots from cold temperatures and frost heaving. This will ensure that Ajuga reptans ‘Burgundy Glow’ returns strongly in the spring.

Final Tips

Ajuga reptans ‘Burgundy Glow’ is a low-maintenance ground cover plant that brings unique colour and texture to any garden. By choosing a well-drained site with partial shade and maintaining moisture, this plant will reward you with eye-catching foliage and delicate blooms from spring to summer. Whether planted in borders, containers, or as part of a mixed display, Ajuga reptans ‘Burgundy Glow’ is a stunning addition to any landscape.

 

RHS Details

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