
Dicentra
Dicentra, also known as “Bleeding Hearts” for its flower shape, is a
fantastic perennial plant that adds much needed color and form to the
garden early on in the season. Flowers are produced above fine fern
like-foliage in Spring and flowers come in a range of pinks and whites.
Dicentra are a favorite of cottage gardeners and also grow well in
woodland or wildlife garden schemes.
How
to grow
Dicentra is a problem free plant to grow that will
grow on moist soils and in most gardens. The plants in this selection
have been expertly grown and will offer the best start possible to you
and your garden. When plants are delivered you should endeavor to plant
them in to their final positions as soon as possible. If you cannot
plant immediately after delivery you should keep roots moist and store
plants in a cool and bright space until the can be moved outdoors.
Position
Dicentra
grows naturally on woodland margins and enjoys a site in full sun or
partial shade. If you can replicate this in the garden your Dicentra
will thrive.
Soil
Most garden soils are suitable
for growing Dicentras as long as they are moist. For best results
prepare soil well by digging it over with a garden fork or spade and
incorporate plenty of organic matter, well-rotted garden compost or multi-purpose compost will
be sufficient. This will help to improve soil structure, drainage and
increase its ability to hold moisture, which Dicentra thrives in.
Care
After
planting your Dicentra you should ensure it is well watered and
maintain a regular watering regime, ensuring that roots do not dry out
completely. You can install an automated irrigation system in your garden to
take of watering needs. An application of fertilizer upon planting and at
regular intervals of the growing season will ensure that plant growth is
healthy and strong and a liquid seaweed feed will
also help to improve plant vigor. Mulch plants in Autumn or spring to
help conserve water, improve soil and suppress weeds.
Top tip
Remove
faded blooms and add to the compost bin. All composted material
can then be recycled as a mulch in the garden.