From our perspective, we thrive when our roots are settled in conditions that mimic our native woodland habitats. Please plant us in a location with well-drained, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. We dislike having our roots sit in waterlogged soil, as this leads to root rot. While we are known for our tolerance of shade, we perform best with dappled sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade, which protects our delicate blooms from scorching. A spot under deciduous trees is ideal, as we receive light in early spring before the trees fully leaf out.
We are not heavy feeders, but we deeply appreciate a meal of rich compost or well-rotted manure. Please apply a generous layer of this organic matter around our base in the early spring, just as we begin our new growth. This slow-release feed provides all the essential nutrients we need for robust growth and prolific flowering. It also improves soil structure, which benefits our root systems. Avoid synthetic fertilizers, as they can harm the delicate microbial life in the soil that we depend on and may force weak, succulent growth that attracts pests.
Consistent moisture is key to our happiness, especially during our active growth periods in spring and fall. However, we insist on a "moist but not soggy" environment. A deep watering less frequently is far better than daily light sprinklings. To help conserve this moisture, suppress weeds, and keep our roots cool, please provide us with a protective blanket of organic mulch. A 2-3 inch layer of shredded leaves, compost, or shredded bark is perfect. This mulch will naturally break down over time, further enriching the soil and creating a healthy ecosystem for earthworms and beneficial bacteria.
We are generally resilient, but our leaves can sometimes be bothered by aphids or disfigured by a fungal disease called leaf spot. Instead of chemical sprays, we advocate for gentler methods. A strong jet of water from a hose can effectively dislodge aphids. For fungal issues, promote good air circulation by not crowding us with other plants and by removing any foliage that becomes severely spotted in fall or late winter. This cleanup removes fungal spores that overwinter. Encouraging beneficial insects, like ladybugs, by planting a diverse garden is our preferred long-term defense strategy against pests.
Our annual cycle has specific needs. In late winter or very early spring, as our new flower stalks and leaf buds emerge, please gently remove the previous year's tattered foliage. This makes our beautiful blooms more visible and drastically reduces hiding places for slugs and snails. After flowering, you can deadhead the spent blooms if you wish to divert our energy into stronger root and leaf growth, though it is not necessary for our health. In autumn, apply a fresh top-dressing of compost around our base to prepare us for the winter and the coming spring growth spurt.
