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Buddleja alternifolia ‘Unique’
£12.95
A compact, free-flowering shrub with arching stems of narrow, silver-green leaves. Intensely fragrant clusters of lilac flowers continuously for 4 to 5 months. It’s compact habit makes it ideal in a patio container. Height 1m. Spread 70cm. Flowers May to October. Full sun. Fertile, well-drained soil. Hardy.
Description
Buddleja alternifolia ‘Unique’ is a compact shrub celebrated for its arching stems adorned with silver-green leaves and lilac blooms. Follow this planting guide to help Buddleja alternifolia ‘Unique’ thrive in your garden.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
- Spring: Plant Buddleja alternifolia ‘Unique’ in spring to give its roots time to establish before the growing season.
- Autumn: Alternatively, planting in autumn allows the shrub to settle in before dormancy, ensuring healthy growth come spring.
Site Selection
- Sunlight: Choose a spot with full sun for the best flowering performance, though it can tolerate partial shade.
- Soil: Buddleja alternifolia ‘Unique’ prefers fertile, well-drained soil. Amend heavy or compacted soil with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Planting Instructions
- Prepare the Area: Clear weeds and loosen the soil in the chosen spot.
- Dig a Hole: Create a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
- Soil Enrichment: Mix compost or organic matter into the removed soil for added nutrients.
- Planting: Place Buddleja alternifolia ‘Unique’ in the hole, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. Gently backfill, firming the soil to eliminate air pockets.
- Water Thoroughly: After planting, water generously to help settle the soil around the roots.
Watering Requirements
- Establishment Phase: Water Buddleja alternifolia ‘Unique’ regularly during its first growing season to help roots establish.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it requires minimal watering, thriving in dry conditions. Water sparingly during prolonged dry spells.
Feeding
- Spring Fertiliser: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to promote lush growth and vibrant flowers.
- Mid-Summer Boost: A second light feeding in mid-summer can support continued blooming.
Pruning
- Post-Flowering: Prune Buddleja alternifolia ‘Unique’ immediately after flowering. Remove spent blooms and trim back stems to encourage a tidy shape and new growth.
- General Maintenance: Remove dead or damaged branches throughout the year as needed.
Mulching
- Spring Mulch: Add a layer of mulch around the base in spring to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Use organic materials like bark chips or compost.
- Winter Mulch: In colder months, mulch around the base to protect roots from frost and temperature fluctuations.
Supporting the Plant
- Compact Growth: Buddleja alternifolia ‘Unique’ has a naturally compact form and rarely requires staking. In windy areas, consider light support to protect young plants.
Final Tips
Buddleja alternifolia ‘Unique’ is ideal for patio containers and smaller gardens due to its compact size. Regular care, including adequate sunlight, well-drained soil, and post-flowering pruning, ensures a long-lasting display of lilac flowers. With its long blooming period from May to October, Buddleja alternifolia ‘Unique’ is a must-have for attracting pollinators while adding fragrance and charm to your garden.
Additional information
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Tom (verified owner) –
An excellent plant as picture well packaged good value