Erysimum ‘Winter Spice’

Description

Erysimum ‘Winter Spice’ is a beautifully scented perennial wallflower known for its glowing copper-orange blooms and long flowering season. To help your plant thrive, follow this comprehensive planting and care guide designed to support strong growth and abundant flowers.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

Spring is an ideal time to plant Erysimum ‘Winter Spice’, as warming soil encourages rapid root establishment and healthy development ahead of the flowering period.
Alternatively, early autumn also provides a good planting window, allowing Erysimum ‘Winter Spice’ to settle in before its next growth phase.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Erysimum flourishes in full sun. Select a bright position that receives generous daylight to promote rich colour and continuous flowering.
• Soil: Erysimum requires free-draining soil to prevent root issues. Improve soil structure with compost or grit if necessary to ensure excellent drainage and long-term plant health.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. This provides space for your Erysimum to spread its roots comfortably.
2. Soil Preparation: Enrich the soil with compost or organic matter to boost fertility and drainage.
3. Planting: Position your Erysimum so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Refill the hole and firm the soil gently.
4. Aftercare Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to help the soil settle around the roots. Ensure excess water can drain away freely.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Erysimum is naturally tolerant of short dry spells. Water only when the soil begins to dry out, taking care not to overwater.
• Dormancy Period: Water sparingly during the plant’s resting phase, providing moisture only if the soil becomes very dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser to give Erysimum ‘Winter Spice’ a strong start, supporting lush growth and scented blooms.
• Mid-Summer: A light feed can prolong flowering and keep the plant vigorous throughout the season.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove faded blooms regularly to encourage new flowers and maintain a tidy shape. Erysimum responds well to consistent deadheading.
• End-of-Season Care: After the final flush of flowers, lightly trim back the plant to prepare it for the next growing cycle.

Mulching

• Spring: Add a thin layer of mulch around Erysimum ‘Winter Spice’ to conserve moisture, discourage weeds and stabilise soil temperature.
• Winter: A protective mulch layer also helps shield the root system from cold conditions.

Supporting the Plant

Erysimum ‘Winter Spice’ typically forms a compact, bushy shape and rarely needs staking. However, in particularly exposed sites, gentle support can be beneficial.

Final Tips

Erysimum ‘Winter Spice’ is a low-maintenance perennial that rewards gardeners with vivid, fragrant flowers for many months. By planting it in full sun, choosing free-draining soil, and following these straightforward care steps, you can enjoy a long season of colour and scent in your garden. With consistent deadheading and occasional feeding, Erysimum will remain a standout feature year after year.