Gypsophila Growing Guide

Gypsophila paniculata

Gypsophila

Crop Rotation Group

Miscellaneous ●

Soil

Any fertile soil with good drainage and an alkaline or near-neutral pH.

Position

Full sun.

Frost tolerant

Moderate. Young seedlings often escape damage from light frost, but may be injured by sudden freezes. Perennial forms are winter hardy.

Feeding

Mix a light application of a balanced organic fertiliser into the soil prior to planting. In early summer, drench plants with a liquid feed to support strong growth.

Companions

The light, airy blossoms of baby’s breath go with everything, but are best located along the edges of flowerbeds for easy cutting.

Spacing

Single Plants: 20cm (7") each way (minimum)
Rows: 20cm (7") with 20cm (7") row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Start seeds indoors in late winter and set out the seedlings while the soil is still cool. Or, sow seeds where you want the plants to grow in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

Perennial forms of baby’s breath are invasive in many climates, but this is not an issue with annual baby’s breath (Gypsophila elegans).

Harvesting

Cut stems for flower arrangements when half of the flowers are open.

Troubleshooting

Excessive rain can cause baby’s breath to develop root rot problems.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Pests which Affect Gypsophila