Calluna v. 'Starlight® Trio Milca'

Planting and Soil Requirements

• Planting Location: Prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade.
• Soil Type: Needs well-draining, acidic soil for optimal growth.
• Soil pH: Acidic to slightly acidic, with a pH range of 4.5 to 6.5.
• Planting Depth: Ensure the root ball is at soil level to prevent rotting.
• Spacing: Space plants about 30-40 cm apart to allow proper air circulation and spread.

Watering and Fertilization

• Watering:
  • Regular watering is necessary during the first year to help establish strong roots.
  • Once established, it is drought-tolerant but benefits from supplemental watering during prolonged dry periods.
  • Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, like pine bark or leaves, to retain moisture and maintain soil acidity.
• Fertilization:
  • Use an acidic fertilizer designed for ericaceous plants, like those for azaleas and rhododendrons.
  • Fertilize in early spring to promote growth, but avoid excessive fertilization as it can reduce flowering.

Light and Temperature Requirements

• Light Requirements: Full sun is ideal for the brightest foliage and best flowering. Partial shade is acceptable but can affect color intensity.
• Temperature: Hardy in USDA zones 5-8, making it tolerant of frost and cold temperatures.
• Winter Protection: In colder regions, applying mulch around the base of the plant will help protect the roots from freezing temperatures.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Pruning:
  • Prune after flowering in late fall or early spring to maintain a compact and bushy shape.
  • Remove spent flowers to encourage new growth.
  • Avoid cutting into the old wood, as it may hinder regrowth.
• Maintenance:
  • Low-maintenance plant requiring little attention beyond pruning, mulching, and watering during dry spells.
  • Regular monitoring for pests or diseases is recommended, but issues are rare.

Pests and Diseases

• Pests:
  • Calluna is generally pest-resistant but can occasionally attract aphids.
  • If aphids appear, treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Diseases:
  • Susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils, so ensure adequate drainage.
  • Fungal issues may occur in humid environments; good air circulation can help prevent this.
• Preventative Measures: Ensure good drainage, avoid overwatering, and ensure the plant gets enough sunlight.

Propagation

• Cuttings: Propagate by taking semi-hardwood cuttings in the summer.
• Layering: Can also be propagated by layering, which involves bending a stem to the ground and covering it with soil to encourage root growth.
• Seed Propagation: Possible but slow; cuttings provide faster and more reliable results.

Companion Planting and Garden Uses

• Companion Plants: Pairs well with other acid-loving plants like azaleas, rhododendrons, and ferns.
• Garden Use: Ideal for borders, rock gardens, containers, or as ground cover. Its varied foliage color offers visual interest throughout the seasons.
• Container Growth: Grows well in containers, provided they have acidic, well-drained soil and receive regular watering.

Winter Care and Overwintering

• Winter Hardiness: Very hardy plant that can survive winter frost and cold without much extra care.
• Evergreen Foliage: Retains its foliage through the winter, providing year-round garden interest.

Key Care Points for Calluna vulgaris 'Starlight® Trio Milca'

• Soil: Acidic, well-draining soil is essential for healthy growth.
• Watering: Water regularly, especially during the first year. Once established, it's drought-tolerant but benefits from watering during dry spells.
• Light: Full sun is best for vibrant foliage and strong growth. Partial shade is acceptable but may reduce color intensity.
• Pruning: Light pruning after flowering helps maintain a compact shape and promotes healthy growth.
• Fertilization: Use an acidic fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilization to encourage flowers.
• Pests/Diseases: Rarely affected by pests or diseases, but ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and avoid overwatering.

Conclusion

Calluna vulgaris 'Starlight® Trio Milca' is a vibrant, easy-to-care-for plant that adds color to your garden throughout the year. With minimal pruning, consistent watering, and acidic soil, this heather will thrive in your landscape or container garden. Its multi-colored foliage offers year-round interest, making it a versatile and valuable addition to any garden.

• Size
  P11

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

Click & Collect

Can’t wait for delivery? Why not try our FREE Click & Collect service? Simply make your purchase online and collect it from our store located in Croagh Co. Limerick. Our staff will contact you by phone when your order is ready for collection (Please allow 24 hours minimum). When collecting your item, call the store on 069-64084. We will then load into your car as required. This service is available in-store 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday (No collections on Sundays)

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