A compact, mat-forming evergreen perennial with grey-green leaves and large purple-blue flowers in spring. Height 10cm. Spread 50cm. Full sun, moist, well drained soil. Hardy.
Aubrieta ‘Just Spring Blue’ is a beautiful, compact, evergreen perennial that produces stunning purple-blue flowers in spring. This mat-forming plant, with its grey-green foliage, is perfect for adding vibrant colour to the front of borders, hanging baskets, or cascading over walls. Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure your Aubrieta ‘Just Spring Blue’ thrives in your garden.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The ideal time to plant Aubrieta ‘Just Spring Blue’ is in spring, once the soil begins to warm. This gives the plant enough time to establish its roots before the growing season begins, ensuring healthy growth and an abundance of flowers.
Autumn: You can also plant in early autumn. Planting in the fall allows the plant to settle in before winter and ensures stronger growth in the following spring.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Aubrieta thrives in full sun. Choose a location where it will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Adequate sunlight will encourage the plant to flower profusely in spring.
Soil: For best results, ensure the soil is well-drained, as Aubrieta doesn’t tolerate waterlogged conditions. It prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve drainage, incorporate compost or other organic materials into the planting site.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice the width and the same depth as the root ball. This allows plenty of space for the roots to spread and establish.
Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil to improve fertility and drainage. Aubrieta ‘Just Spring Blue’ will benefit from nutrient-rich soil for stronger growth and better flower production.
Planting: Place the plant into the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole gently, firming the soil around the plant to eliminate air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water Aubrieta thoroughly after planting. This helps settle the soil and encourages the roots to establish quickly. Ensure that the area drains well to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Once established, Aubrieta is drought-tolerant. Water the plant during dry spells, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Dormant Season: During the dormant season, reduce watering. Water only if the soil becomes very dry, as Aubrieta requires minimal moisture in the winter months.
Feeding
Spring: In early spring, apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser to give your Aubrieta ‘Just Spring Blue’ a strong start for the growing season. This will support healthy new growth and encourage an impressive display of spring flowers.
Mid-Summer: A light feeding in mid-summer can encourage continued flowering and help maintain the plant’s vigour throughout the season.
Pruning
Deadheading: To keep your Aubrieta ‘Just Spring Blue’ looking neat and to extend the flowering period, deadhead regularly by removing spent flowers. This will encourage the plant to produce more blooms and keep it tidy.
Autumn Pruning: After the last flowers have faded in the autumn, cut back the plant lightly to tidy it up. Aubrieta ‘Just Spring Blue’ doesn’t require heavy pruning, but a trim helps keep the foliage in shape.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a thin layer of mulch around the base of your Aubrieta in spring. This will help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate the soil temperature, encouraging healthy growth.
Winter: In colder months, add a layer of mulch around the plant to protect the roots from harsh temperatures and frost. This helps to prevent frost heaving and ensures the plant survives the winter.
Supporting the Plant
Staking: Aubrieta ‘Just Spring Blue’ is generally compact and doesn’t require staking. However, in particularly windy areas, consider using a low plant support or cage to prevent any damage.
Final Tips
Aubrieta ‘Just Spring Blue’ is an excellent low-maintenance perennial that provides a carpet of beautiful purple-blue flowers in spring. By choosing a sunny spot with well-drained soil, following a simple watering routine, and deadheading spent blooms, you can enjoy the vibrant colour Aubrieta ‘Just Spring Blue’ brings to your garden year after year. With minimal care, this hardy perennial will thrive and continue to beautify your outdoor space.
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