Description
Citronelles lime green foliage adds a dramatic flair in containers and shady garden beds. Planted in groups, this specimen lends color to small spaces and thrives with little care. Heucheras are reliable ground covers, resistant to deer and other small critters. For home-grown bouquets, their colorful foliage add interest when cut fresh from the garden.
How to Grow
Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their germination.
Mulches also help retain soil moisture and maintain even soil temperatures. For perennials, an organic mulch of aged bark or shredded leaves lends a natural look to the bed and will improve the soil as it breaks down in time. Always keep mulches off a plant’s stems to prevent possible rot.
Careful watering is essential in getting perennials off to a good start. Water thoroughly at least once a week to help new roots grow down deeply. Soil should be damp at about 1 inch below the soil surface. You can check this by sticking your finger in the soil. Water early in the morning to give all leaves enough time to dry. One inch of rain or watering per week is recommended for most perennial plants. You can check to see if you need to add water by using a rain gauge.
Until plants become established, some protection from extreme winds and direct, hot sunlight may be necessary. Good air movement is also important.
After new growth appears, a light fertilizer may be applied. Keep granular fertilizers away from the plant crown and foliage to avoid burn injury. Use low rates of a slow release fertilizer, as higher rates may encourage root rots.
Feed heucheras in spring with a top dressing of compost, and renew the mulch around the plants as needed.
Deadhead for more continuous blooming if you are growing for the flowers.
Divide plants in the spring or fall when the centers of the crowns become woody. Discard the woody part and replant the side shoots. Plants often self-sow when they are happy.
Tips
Heucheras make a great woodland groundcover or a specimen plant. They are attractive in the front of the border or as an edging.
Grown mostly for their show foliage, which brightens shady areas, many varieties have attractive flowers as well that are good for cutting.
