Chickweed grows cushion-forming and conquers an ever larger territory over time. Its evergreen robe of foliage lies delicately over the ground and pretty white flowers tower above it in early summer. To keep this plant looking good for many years, it needs some care…

Chickweed is very easy to care for

Do you have to water the chickweed or does it tolerate drought?

Overall, the chickweed has a low water requirement. Once established, it tolerates dry periods extremely well. That is why it is so well predestined for rock gardens and other dry plants. It can make friends with calcareous irrigation water.

Nevertheless, regular watering is recommended for good growth. Water less frequently, but thoroughly, so that the plant develops a deep, fine root system. Make sure that there is no standing water. The chickweed does not tolerate this.

Does the chickweed need fertilizer?

Inevitably, chickweed in the field does not need fertilizer. It copes well with lean soils. However, if you hope for a rich flowering that lasts for a long time, you should fertilize this plant with compost once a year - preferably in spring. If the chickweed is in a pot on the balcony, for example, it should be sparingly supplied with liquid fertilizer every 2 to 4 weeks.

What is the role of pruning this plant?

This plant should be pruned when it gets too sprawling. Old, diseased and weak shoots should also be removed. It is also advantageous if the withered flowers are cut off. Sometimes there is a second bloom in the fall as a result.

How is the chickweed divided and when?

Sharing goes like this:

  • every 2 to 3 years
  • Reason: rejuvenation, propagation
  • shortly before sprouting in spring or autumn
  • dig up plant
  • cut off old, dead roots
  • remove weak shoots
  • divide root ball
  • Plant sections in a new location
  • Location: sunny, dry

Is hibernation necessary?

Whether the chickweed is in a rock garden, in a bed or on a slope or embankment - it does not need to be overwintered. It is hardy to -20 °C. It should only be protected with brushwood, for example, in the event of late frost in spring.

tips

If the chickweed is repotted annually, it does not need to be fertilized.

Category:

Herbs