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 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". |
