Are you tired of your garden looking like a scene from a post-apocalyptic movie? Do you want to add a dash of color and life to your garden without breaking the bank? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then it's time to rock your garden with Aubrieta, the colorful ground cover you need. This low-growing, vibrant plant is just what your garden needs to go from drab to fab in no time.
What is Aubrieta?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of how to grow and care for Aubrieta, let's first get to know this plant a little better. Aubrieta, also known as Aubretia or rock cress, is a genus of perennial plants native to Europe and Central Asia. It's a member of the mustard family, but don't worry, it won't add any spicy flavor to your garden.
What makes Aubrieta a standout plant is its ability to produce a carpet of vibrant, small flowers in shades of purple, pink, blue, and white. This plant is a real showstopper during spring when it's in full bloom, and it's sure to make your garden the envy of the neighborhood.
The History of Aubrieta
Named after Claude Aubriet, a French flower-painter, Aubrieta has a rich history that dates back centuries. It was first discovered in the 18th century and has since been a favorite among gardeners for its hardiness and vibrant colors.
Despite its European and Asian origins, Aubrieta has found a home in gardens worldwide, thanks to its adaptability and low maintenance requirements. So, no matter where you live, you can enjoy the beauty of this plant in your garden.
How to Grow Aubrieta
Now that we've piqued your interest in Aubrieta, let's get down to the fun part - growing it. Don't worry, you don't need a green thumb to grow this plant. All you need is a little patience, some basic gardening tools, and our step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
Aubrieta thrives in full sun to partial shade. So, choose a location in your garden that gets at least six hours of sunlight each day. This plant also prefers well-drained soil, so avoid areas where water tends to pool.
Step 2: Prepare the Soil
Next, prepare the soil by removing any weeds or grass and loosening it with a garden fork. Aubrieta prefers slightly alkaline soil, so if your soil is acidic, you might need to add some lime to adjust the pH.
Step 3: Plant the Aubrieta
Once the soil is ready, it's time to plant the Aubrieta. Dig a hole that's twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball of the plant. Place the plant in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Then, fill in the hole with soil, firming it gently around the plant.
Caring for Your Aubrieta
Now that you've planted your Aubrieta, it's time to learn how to care for it. Despite being a low-maintenance plant, Aubrieta does require some basic care to thrive.
Watering
Aubrieta is drought-tolerant, which means it doesn't require frequent watering. However, during the first few weeks after planting, you should water the plant regularly to help it establish. Once established, you can reduce watering to once a week or less, depending on the weather.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of Aubrieta care. After the plant has finished blooming, you should trim it back to encourage bushier growth. This will also help maintain the plant's compact, ground-covering shape.
Aubrieta FAQs
Now, let's address some of the most commonly asked questions about Aubrieta.
Is Aubrieta deer-resistant?
Yes, Aubrieta is deer-resistant, which makes it a great choice for gardens that are frequented by these animals.
Can Aubrieta be grown in containers?
Absolutely! Aubrieta is a versatile plant that can be grown in the ground or in containers. Just make sure the container has good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Is Aubrieta suitable for rock gardens?
Yes, Aubrieta is an excellent choice for rock gardens. Its low-growing habit and vibrant flowers make it a perfect plant for adding color and texture to these types of gardens.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, everything you need to know about Aubrieta. With its vibrant colors, low maintenance requirements, and versatility, it's no wonder this plant is a favorite among gardeners. So, why not give it a try and rock your garden with Aubrieta?
