Aubrieta Problems
Aubrietas are often lauded for their stunning cascades of vibrant flowers, especially when they beautifully adorn walls or rockeries. However, like many plants, aubrietas can experience problems that hinder their growth and presentation. Let’s delve into the common issues faced by gardeners and the possible remedies.
1. Decline in Health Post-Planting
One of the most common concerns among gardeners is seeing a thriving, bushy aubrieta from the garden center diminish in health after planting. These plants sometimes display a pattern of long brown stems with only a few leaves at the end, resembling a plant under severe stress or experiencing pest damage.
Solution: Ensure the planting site provides good drainage. Aubrietas are known to dislike waterlogged or consistently damp conditions, which can cause root rot. If your garden has acid soil, consider adding some garden lime to raise the pH, making it more neutral.
2. Sunlight Requirements
While aubrietas have been tried in both sunny and shaded spots, it’s essential to remember their natural habitat. These plants are native to rocky, mountainous areas, indicating a preference for sunlight.
Solution: Plant aubrietas in a location where they can receive ample sunlight. While they can tolerate some shade, prolonged shade may inhibit their growth and flowering potential.
3. Flowering Season and Post-Flowering Care
Aubrietas predominantly flower in the spring. A decline in flowers post-spring is natural, but there are ways to encourage continued growth and possibly a second bloom.
Solution: After the first bloom concludes, prune your aubrietas. Cutting them back can stimulate bushier growth and might even lead to a second flowering, although this isn’t guaranteed. This pruning also helps maintain their shape and prevents them from becoming too leggy.
4. Pest Problems
A potential culprit for the decline in the plant’s health and the appearance of seemingly eaten leaves is garden pests, notably snails.
Solution: Regularly inspect the plants for signs of snails or other pests. Employing natural deterrents, like crushed eggshells or copper tapes around planting areas, can discourage snails. If the problem persists, consider using organic snail repellents or baits to protect your aubrietas.
5. Planting Technique
A significant piece of advice passed down among gardeners is that aubrietas dislike having their “heart” or center wet. Given their preference for mountainous terrains, they thrive in conditions that mimic this environment.
Solution: Consider planting your aubrietas in raised gravel beds or rockeries, ensuring they have free drainage. This approach prevents water from settling at the plant’s base, promoting healthier growth and reducing the risk of diseases related to excess moisture.
In conclusion, while aubrietas are indeed captivating when in full bloom, their care necessitates a blend of the right environment and attentive maintenance. By following these solutions, you can enjoy the dazzling display of aubrietas in your garden year after year.
