How to Grow and Care for Candytuft
Annuals and Perennials, Iberis Sempervirens
For the beginning gardener and people with poor garden soils, here is an
easy and fast-growing plant. Candytuft has it's "roots" in Spain, or Iberia
as it was once called. Candytuft is actually a small, evergreen bush. Its
small, compact growth and tolerance of poor soil, makes it popular in rock
gardens. Fragrant tufts of candy-like red, white and pink colored flowers
bloom from summer to autumn.
There are both annual and perennial varieties.
Propagation:
Candytuft are grown from seed. Established Candytuft plants can also be
propagated by cuttings or division. Plants can be started indoors 6-8 weeks
before the last frost in your area.
Sow Candytuft seeds early in the season and cover lightly with 1/8" of fine
soil. Space seeds or seedlings 8-10" apart.
How to Grow Candytuft:
Candytuft plants are very easy to grow. They prefer full to partial sun and
a well drained soil. They will do well in average or poor soils, and tolerate
dry soil conditions. They are perfect for rock gardens. Water them during
dry periods, once or twice per week. Add a general purpose fertilizer once
or twice a season.
Candytuft grows 1-15 inches tall.
Perennial varieties should be mulched over winter to protect them from extreme
cold. In the spring, prune back stems to about 4" to promote lusher, fuller
growth.
Insect and Disease:
Candytuft have few insect and disease problems. If insect or disease problems
occur, treat early with organic or chemical insect repellents and fungicide.
More Information:
How
to Grow Candytuft Flowers
Buy Flower, Vegetable and Herb Seeds Finest quality
Ferry Morse Seed, America's oldest seed company with their famous "guarantee
to grow".
Bulbs
and Perennials - Great deals on a a wide assortment of your favorite
bulbs and perennials.
Buy Guarden Raised Garden Bed Frames Perfect for people
who aren't into building their own raised beds. These raised beds are attractive,
long lasting and affordable. Guarden raised bed frames are the strongest
in the industry. A greenhouse system can be added to them, too. |
