This fast-growing species has many cultivars to choose from.
Most need a full or partial sun position in moist but well-drained soil.
These European natives prefer mild temperatures and dont typically do well in sultry southern states.
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A sandy orloamy soilis best, and if you are concerned about drainage, considerplanting in raised beds.
Infertile conditions arent a problem for winter heath, and it suits salty coastal locations.
However, the species wont survive in heavy clay soils.
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Water
Winter heath prefers medium moisture levels but doesn’t tolerate waterlogged soils.
Young plants dry out more rapidly and require more frequent irrigation until established.
Temperature and Humidity
Winter heath is an alpine Europe native.
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That means it prefers mild summer temperatures.
Some cultivars, like Springwood White, are more tolerant of hotter summers.
Fertilizer
Winter heath does well in nutrient-poor soils.
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You dont generally need to apply any fertilizer.
Types of Winter Heath
There are over 100 winter heath cultivars to choose from.
Ensure it has good drainagea porous terracotta pot is also helpful.
The earliest blooming cultivars start flowering in late November, while others might not appear until January.
How Long Does Winter Heath Bloom?
Winter heath can remain in bloom for several months.
What Does Winter Heaths Flowers Look and Smell Like?
As the clusters of tiny blooms mature, their color sometimes deepens.
How to Encourage More Blooms
Light pruning of new growth can encourage more blooms the following season.
You dont need todeadhead the flowersof these plants.
It also pays to keep the soil moist without letting it get soggy.
Typically, the signs below are a warning that you gotta alter the plants care or conditions.
It can also result from over or under-watering or overly fertile soil.
If this hasnt gone too far, you might be able to trim away rotten roots and replant.
Alternatively, you might need to remove the plants and start again in a new spot with better drainage.
Ensure the soil has adequate drainage and remains evenly moist but not soggy.
Foliage can also droop when the plant isnt receiving enough sunlight.
Winter heath blooms come in a wide range of colors.
This includes shades of pink, purple, white and red.
This is a big part of the appeal of the species.
The evergreen foliage comes in shades of green, but some cultivars develop bronze leaves later in the year.
Winter heath is a low-growing, fast-spreading shrub.
It rarely reaches heights over 12 inches.
They spread out to at least double their height.
As they spread, some of the low stems typically take root via layering.
New plants form, producing a dense, attractive, mounding ground cover.
Landscape Plants Rated by Deer Resistance.New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station.
