Heathers are perennial plants with more than 800 species. They are characterized by very persistent foliage and are always discovered in sparse woods with acid soils. Its size does not exceed 0.20 to 0.60 m, on the other hand, this plant can spread over a width of about 0.40 to 0.50 m. Its maintenance is very easy. Heathers are ornamental flowers that give a very decorative side to your garden all year round.
Known by several names:beruée, false heather or brande, this plant belongs to the Ericaceae family. It comes in different colors, but the best known are pink, white, and red. Its flowering is done throughout the year, it is enough to alternate the heathers of summer with those of winter. If you want to have a colorful garden, put them in a sunny, partial shade area with acidic soil (pH less than or equal to 6).
To better decorate your balcony or terrace, you can pot the heathers. Indeed, this kind of plant has a slow growth. As a result, they can adapt to any type of culture. However, remember to water regularly, especially if you plant them in a pot in the ground.
In addition, there are two species of heather, the most common are:Calluna or summer heather, Erica or winter heather. There are also many varieties that flower every month. But, only one species characterizes the callune genus, it is Calluna vulgaris.
The choice is yours when it comes to where to plant heather. They are not difficult. To help you, for example, you can plant them along paths or between shrubs in the garden. Also prefer embankments, open land such as meadows and light woods. Heathers multiply quite quickly, if you put them at the foot of camellias or rhododendrons.
If you plant your flowers yourself, it is better to invest in potted plants. This helps to better manage their growth and the result will be guaranteed. After buying the pots, dig holes of about 30 to 60 cm. Then add 15% potting soil in each hollow, so that the plant grows a little faster. Make sure that the clods are well wetted before putting them in the ground. Add, to finish, a few stripped clods. Remember that the first watering is vital for the proper development of the plant.
What characterizes this plant is its resistance to diseases that affect plants. Common heathers are very hardy. But, all the same, check the formation of a certain gray rot, this can have negative consequences on the whole plantation.
The trick is to plant the heather in well-drained soil and in rockery. In case of prolonged drought or high heat, water them frequently. Have a mulch to aerate the foot of each plant to preserve the humidity and freshness of the soil. Very undemanding, a light pruning and a contribution of fertilizer will be welcome, particularly after each flowering and in the spring.
