CEANOTHUS LEMON AND LIME

Ceanothus 'Lemon and Lime' is an evergreen shrub known for its striking variegated foliage with lime green centers and creamy yellow margins. It produces clusters of blue flowers in spring, adding to its ornamental value. This plant is ideal for borders, hedges, and containers. To ensure its optimal health and beautiful appearance, here are comprehensive care details organized under three main headings: planting, watering and feeding, and pruning and maintenance.

Planting

• Site Selection:

  • Choose a location with full sun exposure. Ceanothus 'Lemon and Lime' thrives best in full sun, which promotes vigorous growth and abundant flowering.
  • Ensure the site has good air circulation to help prevent fungal diseases but is protected from strong, drying winds.

• Soil Preparation:

  • Plant in well-draining soil. Ceanothus prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
  • Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage. Sandy soils can also benefit from added organic matter to enhance moisture retention.

• Planting Process:

  • Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth. This allows the roots to spread easily.
  • Mix the excavated soil with compost to enrich it.
  • Place the ceanothus in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
  • Backfill with the soil mixture, firming gently to eliminate air pockets.
  • Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.
  • Mulch around the base of the plant with organic material to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch away from direct contact with the stems.

Watering and Feeding

• Watering:

  • Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Once established, Ceanothus 'Lemon and Lime' is relatively drought-tolerant.
  • Water deeply, aiming to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
  • During dry periods, water the plant weekly. In cooler months, reduce watering frequency as the plant’s growth slows.

• Feeding:

  • Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins.
  • An additional feeding in midsummer can promote healthy foliage and abundant blooms.
  • Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can encourage excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
  • Incorporate organic matter, such as compost, into the soil annually to maintain soil fertility.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Pruning:

  • Prune lightly after flowering to maintain the plant’s shape and encourage bushy growth. Ceanothus flowers on old wood, so pruning after flowering ensures that you do not remove next year's flower buds.
  • Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood promptly to maintain plant health.
  • Thin out older stems at the base to improve air circulation and encourage new growth.

• Deadheading:

  • Deadheading is generally not necessary for Ceanothus 'Lemon and Lime' as it naturally sheds its spent flowers. However, removing spent blooms can enhance the plant's appearance if desired.

• Pest and Disease Control:

  • Monitor regularly for common pests such as aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for infestations.
  • Prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew and leaf spot by ensuring good air circulation and proper watering practices.
  • Remove any affected foliage promptly and dispose of it to prevent the spread of disease.

Winter Protection

• Winter Care:
  • Ceanothus 'Lemon and Lime' is generally hardy but may benefit from some protection in areas with harsh winters.
  • Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of the plant in late fall to insulate the roots from cold temperatures.
  • In regions with severe frost, consider using a frost cloth or burlap to protect the plant from extreme cold and wind.

Summary

Ceanothus 'Lemon and Lime' is a versatile and visually striking shrub that enhances garden aesthetics with its variegated foliage and vibrant blue flowers. By selecting an appropriate planting site, ensuring regular watering and feeding, and practicing careful pruning and maintenance, you can enjoy the year-round beauty and low-maintenance charm of this plant. With proper care, Ceanothus 'Lemon and Lime' will thrive, providing continuous interest and color to your garden space

• Size
  3 lt

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

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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.
 

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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.
 

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