How to Grow and Care for Rock Soapwort Flowers

About Growing Rock Soapwort Plants in Your Home Flower Garden

Rock Soapwort plants are easy-to-grow perennials that form a carpet of spreading color. Native to Europe and Aisa, Rock Soapwort plants produce a profusion of five-petaled, pink flowers in varying shades of pink and white. Have patience growing Rock Soapwort flowers. The flowers usually begin to bloom in the second year of growth.

The low-growing plants are up to three feet tall. The plants are often used in rock gardens, on hillsides, or as ground cover for hard-to-reach and maintain areas. The plants are just about maintenance-free.

Important: The plant is toxic to humans and pets. Make sure to keep young children and pets away from it.

Rock Soapwort grows well in containers and hanging baskets.

Flowers Bloom: Summer through Fall

Flower Colors: Pink and white.

Plant height: 1 to 3 feet tall.

Plant Hardiness Zones: 2 – 9

Perennial, Saponaria

Perennial Rock Soapwort Plant Propagation

Rock Soapwort is easily grown from division. Simply dig out a section of plants. Next, separate the portion you dug out into a few new sections. Then, re-plant them in another location, or give them to an appreciative friend.

The plants can also be grown from seed. Directly seed into your rock garden or plant seeds indoors for transplanting later. Sow Rock Soapwort seeds early in the season and cover very lightly with soil. Or, broadcast spread the seeds, and rake the soil lightly. Water lightly after seeding.

Note: We recommend a heated germination mat, to increase the speed of germination. And, it, results in a higher germination rate.

Days to Germination: 10 – 15 days.

About Seed Germination

How to Grow Rock Soapwort Flower Plants

Grow Rock Soapwort flowers in full sun to partial shade.

They grow best in light, well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, mix in ample amounts of sand before planting.

These drought-tolerant plants do not need a lot of water. Water them during extended dry periods, once or twice per week.

Fertilize them at the beginning of the year. Then, apply another dose of fertilizer in mid-season.

Once the plants are established, they should grow well for years with almost no maintenance. They will withstand dry periods. Water them during dry periods, once or twice per week. Apply a general-purpose fertilizer every month or two.

After blooming, cut plants back after the first bloom, and you will get a second bloom.

Deadheading plants help to keep a neat and tidy appearance. Of course, if you are going to save seeds for next year, keep a few spent flowers on the plant until the dead bloom has completely dried.

Ideal Soil pH: 7.0 – 8.0.

Also, see:

Plant Problems – Identify the causes and find the cures.

Insects and Plant Disease

Rock Soapworts seldom have problems with insects and disease. If insect or disease problems occur, treat early with organic or chemical insect repellents and fungicide.