A stunning coneflower with large, double apricot-orange blooms and contrasting green foliage. Flowers from midsummer to early autumn. Height 70 cm. Spread 45cm. Full sun, well-drained soil. Attracts bees and butterflies. Hardy.
Echinacea purpurea ‘Supreme Cantaloupe’ is a stunning perennial coneflower, loved for its large, double apricot-orange blooms and long flowering period from midsummer to early autumn. With its ability to attract bees and butterflies, this hardy plant adds vibrant colour and pollinator value to borders and beds. Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure your Echinacea purpurea ‘Supreme Cantaloupe’ thrives season after season.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The ideal time to plant Echinacea is in spring when the soil is warming. This helps establish strong roots before the main flowering season.
Autumn: Planting in early autumn is also suitable, allowing the plant to settle in before entering dormancy and encouraging better growth in the following year.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Echinacea performs best in full sun. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily for optimal blooming and healthy growth.
Soil: Well-drained soil is essential. Echinacea purpurea ‘Supreme Cantaloupe’ does not tolerate waterlogging, so improve heavy soils with organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to aid drainage.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the plant’s root ball.
Soil Preparation: Mix compost or other organic matter into the soil to enrich it and enhance drainage.
Planting: Position Echinacea purpurea ‘Supreme Cantaloupe’ so the crown is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill and firm gently.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and reduce air pockets.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Water moderately during dry spells. Echinacea is drought-tolerant once established but will flower better with consistent moisture.
Dormant Season: Reduce watering in the colder months. Only water if conditions are extremely dry, as the plant requires minimal moisture when dormant.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to encourage strong new growth and flower production.
Mid-Summer: A light feed mid-season helps sustain flowering and overall plant vigour.
Pruning
Deadheading: Regularly remove spent blooms to encourage continued flowering and maintain a neat appearance.
Autumn Pruning: Once flowering ends, cut stems back to the base. This prepares Echinacea purpurea ‘Supreme Cantaloupe’ for dormancy and supports healthy regrowth in spring.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a 5 cm layer of mulch around the base of Echinacea purpurea ‘Supreme Cantaloupe’ to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Winter: In colder months, mulch provides extra root protection and insulates the plant against fluctuating temperatures.
Supporting the Plant
Staking: While generally self-supporting, in exposed or windy gardens, lightly stake taller stems to prevent bending or snapping, especially during heavy rain.
Final Tips
Echinacea purpurea ‘Supreme Cantaloupe’ is a low-maintenance, long-blooming perennial perfect for borders, wildlife gardens, and cut flower arrangements. For the best results, plant it in a sunny, well-drained spot and follow this care guide. With proper maintenance, this Echinacea will reward you with months of colour and pollinator activity, making it a valuable and beautiful addition to any garden.
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