Aubrieta ‘Audrey F1 Deep Blue’
£5.95
A compact, mat-forming evergreen perennial with grey-green leaves and unusually large deep purple-blue flowers in spring. Height 10cm. Spread 40cm. Full sun, moist, well drained soil. Hardy.
Description
Aubrieta ‘Audrey F1 Deep Blue’ is a low-growing, evergreen perennial cherished for its stunning carpet of deep blue flowers that emerge in spring. This compact, hardy plant is ideal for rock gardens, borders, and cascading over walls, offering a vibrant burst of colour year after year. Follow this guide to ensure your Aubrieta thrives in your garden.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
- Spring: Plant Aubrieta ‘Audrey F1 Deep Blue’ in early spring as the soil begins to warm. This timing helps the roots establish before the growing season starts.
- Autumn: Early autumn is another excellent option, as the plant can settle before winter dormancy, ensuring strong growth in spring.
Ideal Location for Planting
- Sunlight Requirements: Aubrieta flourishes in full sun but will tolerate partial shade. A sunny location ensures the most abundant blooms.
- Soil Preferences: Well-drained soil is critical for Aubrieta. Sandy or loamy soils enriched with compost or organic matter are ideal. Avoid heavy, water-retentive soils that can lead to root rot.
Planting Instructions
- Prepare the Ground: Clear the area of weeds and debris. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of your Aubrieta.
- Amend the Soil: Incorporate a mix of compost and sand into the soil to enhance drainage and provide essential nutrients.
- Position the Plant: Place the plant in the hole so that the crown sits level with the soil surface. Backfill gently, ensuring no air pockets remain around the roots.
- Water Thoroughly: Water deeply after planting to help the soil settle and support root establishment.
Watering Tips
- During Active Growth: Water Aubrieta ‘Audrey F1 Deep Blue’ regularly in its first growing season, keeping the soil slightly moist but not soggy. Established plants are drought-tolerant and need watering only during prolonged dry spells.
- Dormant Period: Reduce watering significantly in late autumn and winter, as the plant requires minimal moisture during dormancy.
Feeding Your Aubrieta
- Early Spring: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser at the start of the growing season to encourage healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
- Post-Blooming: Feed again lightly after the flowering period to sustain the plant’s energy for the next growth cycle.
Pruning for Healthy Growth
- After Flowering: Trim back your Aubrieta after its spring bloom to maintain a neat shape and encourage compact, dense growth.
- Seasonal Maintenance: Remove any dead or damaged foliage during the year to keep the plant healthy and visually appealing.
Mulching and Protection
- Spring Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as bark chips or well-rotted compost, around the base of the plant in spring. This helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil quality.
- Winter Care: Mulch in autumn to protect the roots from freezing temperatures and provide insulation during colder months.
Pest and Disease Management
Aubrieta ‘Audrey F1 Deep Blue’ is a resilient plant with few pest or disease issues. However, keep an eye out for aphids and slugs, which may occasionally pose a problem. Use organic pest controls or barriers as needed.
Companion Planting
Aubrieta ‘Audrey F1 Deep Blue’ pairs beautifully with plants like sedum and creeping phlox. These companions complement its trailing habit and create a colourful, low-maintenance garden display.
Final Tips
Aubrieta ‘Audrey F1 Deep Blue’ is a versatile, easy-to-grow perennial that adds vibrant charm to any garden. By providing a sunny location, well-drained soil, and following the care routine outlined here, you can enjoy a dazzling floral display each spring. Incorporate Aubrieta into rockeries, borders, or containers for a lasting splash of deep blue beauty in your outdoor space.
Additional information
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Helen W. (verified owner) –
Lovely healthy plants
Helen W. (verified owner) –
Lovely quality and fast delivery