Brunnera, also known as Siberian Bugloss or False Forget-Me-Not, is an enchanting perennial appreciated for its heart-shaped foliage and delicate blue flowers. To ensure the successful establishment and flourishing of your Brunnera plants, follow this comprehensive planting guide.

Selecting the Planting Site

Sunlight Requirements: Choose a location with partial to full shade. Brunnera thrives in dappled sunlight or shaded areas.

Soil Conditions: Plant in well-draining, humus-rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Ensure the soil retains moisture without becoming waterlogged.

Planting Time

Optimal Timing: Plant Brunnera in early spring or early Autumn. These seasons provide moderate temperatures and allow the plants to establish well before extreme weather conditions.

Planting Process

Prepare the Soil: Work the soil to a depth of 12 inches, incorporating organic matter such as compost for enhanced fertility.

Spacing: Plant Brunnera about 12 to 18 inches apart, depending on the variety. This allows for proper air circulation and prevents overcrowding.

Plant Depth: Set the plants at the same depth they were in the nursery containers. Water thoroughly after planting.

Watering

Establishment Period: Water regularly during the first growing season to help the plants establish strong root systems.

Consistent Moisture: Brunnera appreciates consistent moisture. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods.

Mulching

Organic Mulch: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and provide insulation.

Fertilisation

Balanced Fertiliser: Before the growing season, apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser according to package instructions to support healthy growth.

Support

Generally Unnecessary: Brunnera is a low-maintenance plant that typically doesn’t require staking or additional support.

Pruning

Spring Clean-up: In early spring, remove any damaged or withered foliage to encourage new growth.

Pest and Disease Management

Good Air Circulation: Proper spacing between plants promotes good air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

Monitor for Pests: Keep an eye out for pests such as slugs and snails, especially in shaded areas. Use appropriate methods to control them.

Winter Care

Cold Hardy: Brunnera is generally cold-hardy. Mulch lightly in late Autumn to provide some protection in harsh winter climates.

Avoid Waterlogging: Ensure the soil drains well during winter to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Division

Periodic Division: Every 3-4 years, consider dividing mature Brunnera clumps to rejuvenate the plants. This is best done in early spring.

Adaptation

Monitor and Adjust: Regularly monitor the overall health of your Brunnera. Adjust care practices based on the specific growing conditions in your garden.

By following this guide, you’ll establish a thriving Brunnera garden, featuring lush foliage and delicate flowers. Adapt these recommendations based on your specific growing conditions and enjoy the enduring beauty that Brunnera brings to your landscape.

Congratulations on cultivating the captivating Brunnera (Siberian Bugloss or False Forget-Me-Not) in your garden! Proper aftercare is essential for maintaining the health and beauty of these resilient perennials. Follow this guide for effective post-planting care:

Watering

Establishment Period: During the first growing season, continue to water regularly to help the plants establish a strong root system.

Consistent Moisture: Brunnera appreciates consistent moisture. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods.

Mulching

Organic Mulch: Maintain a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the plants. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and provide insulation.

Mulch Renewal: Periodically replenish the mulch, especially in the spring, to keep it effective.

Fertilisation

Balanced Fertiliser: Before the growing season, apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser according to package instructions to support healthy growth.

Spring Feeding: Provide additional nutrients in early spring to encourage robust growth and vibrant foliage.

Support

Generally Unnecessary: Brunnera is a low-maintenance plant that typically doesn’t require staking or additional support.

Pruning

Spring Clean-up: In early spring, remove any damaged or withered foliage to encourage new growth. This also helps maintain a tidy appearance.

Pest and Disease Management

Good Air Circulation: Proper spacing between plants promotes good air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

Monitor for Pests: Regularly inspect your Brunnera for pests such as slugs and snails, especially in shaded areas. Employ appropriate methods to control them.

Winter Care

Cold Hardy: Brunnera is generally cold hardy. Mulch lightly in late Autumn to provide some protection in harsh winter climates.

Avoid Waterlogging: Ensure the soil drains well during winter to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Division

Periodic Division: Every 3-4 years, consider dividing mature Brunnera clumps to rejuvenate the plants. This is best done in early spring.

Adaptation 

Monitor and Adjust: Regularly monitor the overall health of your Brunnera. Adjust care practices based on the specific growing conditions in your garden.

Enjoy the Blooms

Appreciate the Flowers: Brunnera produces delicate, forget-me-not-like blooms in the spring. Take time to enjoy the charming display.

By following these aftercare tips, you’ll ensure that your Brunnera plants continue to thrive, displaying their unique foliage and delicate flowers. Adapt these recommendations based on your specific growing conditions and the particular needs of the Brunnera varieties you have cultivated. Enjoy the enduring beauty and resilience of these enchanting perennials!

While we are committed to providing healthy and robust plants, it’s important to acknowledge that certain factors, particularly extreme weather conditions, are beyond our control. Events such as severe frost, prolonged heatwaves, high winds, or exceptionally heavy rainfall can impact the health of your Brunnera.

Our Advice

Weather Monitoring: Stay vigilant and regularly monitor local weather forecasts, especially during periods of extreme weather.

Protective Measures: Consider implementing protective measures during extreme conditions, such as providing temporary shading during intense heat or covering plants during unexpected frost.

Aftermath Assessment: Following extreme weather events, assess the condition of your Brunnera plants. If damage occurs, follow appropriate care steps, including pruning damaged parts and adjusting watering routines.

Limitations

Natural Variables: Brunnera, like any living organism, is influenced by natural variables. Extreme weather events are inherent risks that may impact plant health despite best care practices.

No Guarantee: Due to the unpredictable nature of extreme weather, we cannot guarantee the outcome of your Brunnera’s response to such conditions. Plants may exhibit stress or damage beyond our control.

Customer Responsibility

Preventive Measures: We encourage you to take proactive measures based on weather forecasts and to implement protective strategies to minimise potential harm during extreme weather.

Adaptation: Recognise that Brunnera, while resilient, may respond differently to various weather conditions. Adapt care practices accordingly and be prepared to address any adverse effects.

Contact Us

If you have specific concerns or questions related to extreme weather impacts on your Brunnera plants, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to offer guidance and support within the scope of our expertise.

Email: info@proctorsnursery.co.uk

Note: This disclaimer serves to acknowledge the unpredictability of extreme weather events and the associated risks to Brunnera plants. Your understanding, proactive care, and prompt communication are key to ensuring the well-being of your garden