Leucanthemum x superbum ‘Alaska’

Description

Leucanthemum x superbum ‘Alaska’ is a stunning perennial known for its large, daisy-like bright white flowers with golden-yellow centres. This hardy, clump-forming plant is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your garden. Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure your Leucanthemum x superbum ‘Alaska’ thrives year after year.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Time to Plant

• Spring: The optimal time to plant Leucanthemum x superbum ‘Alaska’ is in early spring when the soil starts to warm up. Planting in spring gives the roots a chance to establish before the growing season begins, ensuring a healthy and strong plant.
• Autumn: Alternatively, you can plant in early autumn. This allows the plant to settle in before the colder months, leading to a vigorous start when spring arrives.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Leucanthemum thrives in full sun to partial shade. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Adequate sunlight will encourage strong growth and an abundance of vibrant blooms.
• Soil: This plant prefers well-drained, fertile soil. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. To improve soil fertility and drainage, mix in organic matter like compost.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole that is about twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of the plant. This will give the roots plenty of space to spread and establish.
2. Soil Preparation: Enrich the soil by adding compost or organic matter to improve both fertility and drainage. Leucanthemum thrives in nutrient-rich soil, which helps support its growth.
3. Planting: Place the root ball into the hole, ensuring that the top of the ball is level with the surrounding soil. Gently backfill the hole, pressing the soil around the roots to remove any air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting. This helps settle the soil and encourages the roots to establish. Ensure the area drains well to prevent waterlogging.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Leucanthemum is relatively drought-tolerant. Water during dry spells, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
• Dormant Season: During the dormant period in winter, reduce watering. Leucanthemum requires minimal moisture at this time. Only water if the soil becomes extremely dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to give Leucanthemum x superbum ‘Alaska’ a strong start for the growing season. This supports healthy new growth and promotes an abundance of flowers.
• Mid-Summer: A light feeding in mid-summer can encourage continued flowering and help maintain the plant’s vigour throughout the blooming season.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers from Leucanthemum. This practice prolongs the blooming period, keeps the plant looking tidy, and encourages fresh blooms.
• Autumn Pruning: After the last flowers have faded, cut the plant back to ground level. This prepares your Leucanthemum for winter dormancy and ensures better growth the following spring.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your Leucanthemum in spring to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic materials like compost or bark chips work best.
• Winter: In winter, mulch around the plant to protect the roots from freezing temperatures and prevent frost heaving, which could damage the plant.

Supporting the Plant

Leucanthemum x superbum ‘Alaska’ has a sturdy growth habit and typically does not require staking. However, in windy areas or if the plant becomes top-heavy, consider staking to prevent the stems from breaking.

Final Tips for Growing

Leucanthemum x superbum ‘Alaska’ is a hardy perennial that blooms from June to September, offering a spectacular display of large white daisies. By planting it in well-drained, fertile soil and following the care instructions, your Leucanthemum will thrive and provide you with beautiful flowers for years to come. This versatile plant is perfect for garden borders, containers, or as a cut flower.