Despite its Mediterranean origin, the spur flower (Centranthus) has been cultivated in central European castle and monastery gardens since the Middle Ages. At a suitably selected and prepared location, the care of the grateful flowering plant is not very time-consuming for the gardener.

Spurflowers thrive in both beds and pots

How regularly should you water the spur flower?

The spurge is sensitive to waterlogging in the soil, so it should be grown in a spot with well-drained soil or in an area of sunlit dry stone walls and rock gardens. Nevertheless, the soil must not dry out completely. Daily, sparing watering may be appropriate during the flowering period during longer periods of drought. However, this should only be done in the morning and evening hours so that the flowers do not “burn” as a result.

When is a safe repotting of the spur flower possible?

The best time for repotting is in spring, when the plant is just beginning to sprout. Propagation by root division should also be carried out at this time in order to rejuvenate older specimens and obtain strong offshoots. After dividing and/or transplanting, the plants should be watered sufficiently.

When and how is the spur flower cut?

Since the spur flower naturally only grows to a height of about 80 centimeters and also grows rather compactly, pruning to limit the size is actually not necessary. However, it can make sense to cut off the withered flowers immediately after the flowering period if self-sowing in the garden is undesirable. In addition, a slight pruning down to the leaf material after the first flowering can stimulate a second flowering period from August into autumn.

Which pests or diseases are problematic for the spur flower?

The spur flower is usually very resistant to diseases and usually does not show any particular infestation with pests. On the contrary: spur flowers often attract numerous beautiful butterflies to their nectar-rich flowers.

Should spur flowers be fertilized regularly?

Spur flowers generally do not need any special fertilization as they are rather undemanding. Therefore, with a sufficiently permeable subsoil, occasional composting is sufficient as a nutrient supply.

Can spur flowers be overwintered?

The Centranthus species, originally from the Mediterranean region, have no problem with frosts down to minus 20 degrees because they spend the winter in the ground. However, the following factors must be taken into account when it comes to winter:

  • Sow seeds by September at the latest so that the young plants get through the winter well
  • Choose locations with as much sun as possible
  • Cut off the withered plant parts in autumn and cover with a layer of mulch (not mandatory)

tips

The flowers of the spur flower not only bloom quite persistently in the garden, but can also be used perfectly as cut flowers for the vase. As with removing faded inflorescences, cutting off individual flowers for the vase will stimulate new buds to form in the same year.

Category:

Herbs