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 Heathers
Heathers form an attractive range of plants which can be used to provide a trouble free tapestry of colour throughout the year. They will cover the ground and keep weeds at bay. If carefully chosen they can be in flower nearly all year round; the foliage differs with the seasons so the result is constantly changing but always pleasing.
Siting and Cultivation
Heathers like to be in an open situation with plenty of light. They are very hardy and will withstand the coldest of gardens. Avoid planting under trees as the water drips will rot off the plants.
Soil type
It is important that the soil type is acidic but if not then the Erica group should be chosen which are more tolerant to limey soils. Avoid heavy clay soils as heathers prefer a free draining soil, though they do not do well in very dry soil.
Versatile
Heathers are very versatile in their uses. Well suited to front of borders, rockeries and specialist heather beds. They may also be used for growing in large patio pots, particularly for winter arrangements. Small winter heathers make an interesting feature in a winter hanging basket.
Planting
Soak the pot thoroughly before removing the plant. Mix a generous handful of bone meal with a bucket of lime free compost and mix. Plant the heather in the mix and firm in gently around the crown of the plant. Water in well.
Aftercare
Never allow heathers to dry out, if they do they rarely survive. Once established apply a layer of peat around each heather in the autumn and again in the spring. Heathers are not hungry feeders so avoid the use of strong granular fertilisers. If necessary use a weak liquid feed in the spring.
Pruning
This is a simple task and essential for the plant to flower with vigour and to prevent them from becoming leggy. As soon as flowering has finished use sharp shears to clip back to the base of the old flower shoot. Cut back any extra growth to shape. More gardeners make the mistake of not pruning hard enough– be bold.
Pests and Disease
Heathers suffer from very few pests and none should be encountered. Most disease arises from problems in the root system. Should browning of the foliage occur immediately drench with a general purpose fungicide. Scorch of the foliage is often caused by dogs, cats and foxes.
Choosing Heathers
Erica carneas and erica x darlyensis ~ these are the winter flowering ones that produce flowers from December to April. Striking pinks, reds and white are very imposing in the winter.
Daboecias (Irish Heather)~ these tend to grow a little taller and produce large bell shaped flowers in white, pink or red from June to October. Lush looking leaves.
Erica Vagans (Cornish Heather)~ these produce bushy tufts of flowers over either dark green or golden foliage.
Erica cinerias (native heather)~ these are found covering the moorland areas throughout the UK. They flower in the summer months and are low growing so should be kept to the front of the display. They provide a wide range of strikingly bold coloured flowers.
Calluna vulgaris ~ this is the largest group of heathers. They flower during the summer months in a variety of colours. Foliage colours vary widely from grey to green and from yellow to gold.
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