Erigeron karvinskianus ‘Lavender Lady’

Description

Erigeron karvinskianus ‘Lavender Lady’ is a low-maintenance, spreading perennial with delicate dark-green foliage. It produces masses of lavender, yellow-centred daisies, creating a long-lasting display from May to October. Perfect for borders, rockeries, and containers, this hardy perennial thrives in full sun with well-drained soil.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Erigeron karvinskianus ‘Lavender Lady’ in spring when the soil starts to warm. This allows roots to establish before the flowering season, supporting vigorous blooms.
• Autumn: You can also plant Erigeron karvinskianus ‘Lavender Lady’ in early autumn. This gives the plant time to settle in before its dormant period, promoting strong growth the following year.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Erigeron karvinskianus ‘Lavender Lady’ thrives in full sun. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily to maximise flower production.
• Soil: Ensure well-drained soil when planting. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged conditions, so incorporate organic matter such as compost to improve drainage and fertility.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball of Erigeron karvinskianus ‘Lavender Lady’ to give roots plenty of space to grow.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil to enhance nutrient levels and drainage.
3. Planting: Place the plant into the prepared hole with the top of the root ball level with the surrounding soil. Backfill gently, firming to remove air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to help roots establish. Ensure the area drains well to prevent waterlogging.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Erigeron is moderately drought-tolerant. Water during dry spells, allowing the soil to dry slightly between sessions. Avoid overwatering.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering significantly during dormancy. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to give your Erigeron a strong start to the growing season.
• Mid-Summer: A light feeding during summer encourages continuous flowering and maintains plant vigour.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to prolong the flowering period and encourage new blooms.
• Autumn Pruning: Cut back Erigeron karvinskianus ‘Lavender Lady’ to tidy the plant after flowering and prepare it for dormancy.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Winter: Mulching protects roots from frost and prevents soil heaving during colder months.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Erigeron has a low, spreading habit and rarely requires staking. Stake only if exposed to strong winds.

Final Tips

Erigeron karvinskianus ‘Lavender Lady’ is a hardy, long-flowering perennial perfect for adding colour to any garden. Plant in full sun with well-drained soil, follow this care guide, and enjoy abundant lavender daisies from late spring to autumn.