Both the heather, also known as erica, and the closely related common heather (Calluna vulgaris) belong to the large family of heather plants (Ericaceae) and have very similar requirements in terms of location and care.

Heather does not tolerate drought

Do you have to water the heather?

Heather is very sensitive to drought and must not dry out under any circumstances. The soil should therefore always be well moistened, and it should be watered regularly and plentifully, especially in the hot summer months and in dry periods. The same applies to winter, which is why a layer of mulch in the root area is a sensible preparation for the cold season; the mulch (€239.00) stores moisture and thus counteracts dehydration.

When and how to fertilize the heather?

In principle, it is sufficient to fertilize the heather twice a year: once at the beginning of the growing season and once after pruning. Use organic fertilizer for this (horn shavings are particularly suitable) or special fertilizer for ericaceous plants.

When is the right time to prune heather?

Either directly after flowering in autumn (summer heath) or in spring (winter heath), the heather is cut back heavily to prevent it from becoming bare.

What should be considered when cultivating heather in pots?

Heather in a pot should be fertilized regularly with bog plant fertilizer, and the root ball must not dry out - waterlogging should also be avoided, otherwise the plant will rot from below. If possible, choose hardy varieties that do not need additional protection.

Is the heather susceptible to diseases or pests?

The heather is very robust and not very susceptible to any diseases or pests. Only the honey fungus can cause considerable damage, especially in summer heather, by causing white rot in the wood. In the event of an infestation, the only thing that usually helps is to tear out the infested heather and replace the contaminated soil.

Is the heather hardy?

Depending on where it comes from, heather may or may not be hardy. The common heather, also known as summer heather - especially the bud heather - as well as the winter or snow heather are hardy. Other species (e.g. the tree heather Erica arborea), on the other hand, come from regions with a milder climate and are therefore not hardy.

How should heather be overwintered?

Hardy varieties don't actually need any additional protection, while more sensitive ones should be protected from frost with a layer of leaves or mulch or brushwood.

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If the heath dries up from below, i.e. turns brown, there is usually no lack of water, but - on the contrary - waterlogging with progressive root rot.

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Herbs