A clump-forming perennial with silver speckled foliage and large periwinkle-blue flowers in spring. Height 25cm. Spread 45cm. Flowers March to May. Partial shade. Hardy.
Pulmonaria ‘Twinkle Toes’ is a charming perennial with striking silver-spotted foliage and clusters of delicate, nodding flowers. Its vibrant blooms range from pink to blue, adding a pop of colour to shaded areas in your garden. This easy-to-care-for plant thrives in cool climates, making it a fantastic addition to any garden. Follow this guide to ensure your Pulmonaria ‘Twinkle Toes’ thrives year after year.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The best time to plant Pulmonaria ‘Twinkle Toes’ is in spring, once the risk of frost has passed. Planting in early spring allows the roots to establish before the summer heat, ensuring a strong start to the growing season.
Autumn: Alternatively, you can plant in early autumn, giving the plant time to settle in before winter. This provides Pulmonaria ‘Twinkle Toes’ with a head start for spring growth.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Pulmonaria thrives in partial to full shade, making it perfect for those tricky, shaded spots in your garden. While it can tolerate some morning sun, it prefers to stay cool and shaded, especially during the warmer months.
Soil: Pulmonaria ‘Twinkle Toes’ prefers moist, well-drained soil. It’s important to ensure that the soil retains moisture but does not become waterlogged. Enriching the soil with organic matter, such as compost, will improve drainage and fertility.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and about the same depth. This will provide the roots with plenty of space to spread out and establish.
Soil Preparation: Improve the soil by mixing in compost or well-rotted manure. Pulmonaria thrives in nutrient-rich, slightly acidic to neutral soil, so enhancing the soil before planting is crucial.
Planting: Gently place the root ball into the hole, making sure that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill with soil, pressing down gently to remove air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to settle the soil and help the roots establish. Make sure the area drains well to avoid waterlogged conditions.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: During the growing season, Pulmonaria ‘Twinkle Toes’ requires consistently moist soil. However, avoid overwatering as the plant does not like to sit in stagnant water. Water deeply during dry spells to encourage deep root growth.
Dormant Season: In winter, reduce watering, as Pulmonaria goes into dormancy. Only water if the soil is excessively dry.
Feeding
Early Spring: Before the growing season kicks off, apply a balanced fertiliser or well-rotted compost to give Pulmonaria ‘Twinkle Toes’ a nutrient boost. This will support healthy foliage and vibrant flowers.
Mid-Summer: A light feeding in mid-summer will help maintain its growth and encourage further blooming. Avoid over-fertilising, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Deadheading: To prolong the flowering season, regularly deadhead spent blooms. This keeps the plant looking tidy and encourages fresh blooms.
Autumn Pruning: After the blooming season, trim back any dead or damaged leaves. Pulmonaria doesn’t require heavy pruning, but removing old growth helps maintain its appearance.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your Pulmonaria in early spring. This helps retain moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature.
Winter: Mulching in winter provides insulation for the roots, helping to protect them from cold spells. Use organic materials like bark chips or leaf mulch for the best results.
Supporting the Plant
Pulmonaria ‘Twinkle Toes’ generally does not require staking, as it has a compact, clump-forming habit. However, if planted in particularly windy locations or in areas with heavy rainfall, staking may help prevent damage.
Final Tips
Pulmonaria ‘Twinkle Toes’ is a beautiful, low-maintenance perennial that adds a touch of elegance to shady garden spots. With its striking foliage and charming flowers, it thrives in cool, shaded areas with moist, well-drained soil. By following the planting and care tips above, your Pulmonaria will provide you with vibrant colour and texture throughout the growing season, enriching your garden year after year.
Incorporate Pulmonaria ‘Twinkle Toes’ into your garden design for a stunning, easy-care plant that thrives in shady spots and brings beauty to your outdoor space.
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