Heuchera Growing Guide

Heuchera americana hybrids

Crop Rotation Group

Miscellaneous ●

Soil

Fertile, well-drained soil enriched with compost, with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.

Position

Partial shade, especially afternoon shade.

Frost tolerant

Yes, heuchera is a hardy perennial. Well-rooted plants are hardy to -34°C (-30°F ).

Feeding

Drench with a liquid organic fertiliser when plants begin to produce new leaves in spring. Feed again in late summer to nourish the dramatic foliage.

Spacing

Single Plants: 30cm (11") each way (minimum)
Rows: 30cm (11") with 30cm (11") row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Potted plants of improved varieties are widely available in spring. Set out plants as early as possible, while the soil is still cool. Spread the roots with your fingers, and take care not to bury the crown, which can lead to rotting. Where winters are mild, heucheras also can be planted in early autumn. Young plants need water when they are actively growing. A surface mulch suppresses weeds while making the plants look more attractive.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

Heucheras are descended from North American native plants, and they are among the prettiest perennials for partial shade. The plants produce sprays of flowers in spring, but heucheras are primarily grown for their colourful foliage, which persists through winter in mild climates. Leaf colour varies from lime green to deep burgundy, depending on cultivar. Heucheras have been hybridized with tiarella (foamflower) to produce heucherellas, which can accept more shade than most heucheras.

Harvesting

Heuchera flowers can be used in cut arrangements, and picking early flowers may prolong bloom time. When flowering ends, prune off old stems to better view the heuchera foliage.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Pests which Affect Heuchera

Aphids (General)

Slug

Snail