Like the classic carnations, the campanula also belongs to the carnation family, but they form a plant family of their own. According to this, the numerous different types and varieties are also referred to as catchfly. With regard to their location and maintenance conditions, the individual species have very different requirements. The following article gives you a practical overview.

The red campion needs a lot of water

Which location do campions prefer?

With regard to the location alone, the needs of the individual campion species are very different.

  • Carnation (Silene coronaria) : full sun; not too moist, humus-rich soil
  • Jupiter campion (Silene flos-jovis): full sun; not too moist, humus-rich and calcareous soil
  • Cliff catchfly (Silene maritima): sunny; lean, sandy and calcareous soil
  • Autumn catchfly (Silene schafta): sunny; lean, sandy and calcareous soil
  • Common pitcher (Silene viscaria): full sun; moderately nutrient-rich, lime-poor soil
  • Cuckoo campion (Silene flos-cuculi): partially shaded to sunny; as moist as possible
  • Red campion (Silene dioica): partially shaded to sunny; as moist as possible
  • Burning Love (Silene chalcedonica): sunny; not too moist and humus-rich soil

How high is the water requirement of the campion?

The water requirements of the individual species are also very different. The species that tend to grow on moist soil need a lot of water, while the others prefer dry soil.

Do you have to fertilize campions?

No, fertilization is usually not necessary. However, you can spoil the perennials with a little ripe compost at the beginning of the growing season or when planting. The material should be worked well into the soil. Exception: This measure should not be carried out with campion species that are more accustomed to poor soils.

When and how to cut campion flowers?

It is not necessary to cut back the campions. Only withered leaves can be removed.

What pests/diseases are common in campion plants?

Campions are often attacked by aphids. Waterlogging is also problematic because it can lead to various fungal diseases. Affected plants should be removed as soon as possible to prevent spread.

Are campions hardy?

All campions are considered to be absolutely hardy and do not need any additional winter protection.

tips

All campion plants are best propagated by seeds that are sown immediately after the seeds have ripened or in spring. However, the plants also self-seed willingly and in large numbers.

Category:

Herbs