- How is the mountain knapweed watered?
- How often does it need to be fertilized?
- When is the best time to cut the mountain knapweed?
- What diseases and pests can occur?
- Is winter protection required?
Mountain knapweeds are an integral part of a natural garden or cottage garden. With their filigree pink or blue flowers, the perennials also provide a real summer feeling in the bucket. The mountain knapweed needs very little care.
The mountain knapweed is very easy to care for
How is the mountain knapweed watered?
Mountain knapweeds should never dry out completely, but do not tolerate waterlogging at all. Water regularly on hot days, especially if you keep the perennial in the bucket.
If possible, use rainwater, as mountain knapweed reacts to calcareous tap water with color changes.
How often does it need to be fertilized?
Provide nutrients while planting by mixing mature compost or horn shavings (€32.93) into the potting soil. Later, two fertilizations - once in spring and once in autumn - are completely sufficient.
When is the best time to cut the mountain knapweed?
During the flowering period, continuously cut off all faded and dried-up parts of the plant. In autumn you must not cut back the perennial so that the plant juices can withdraw into the roots.
The pruning takes place in the spring before the mountain knapweed sprout again. Then you are allowed to remove all parts of the plant down to the base.
What diseases and pests can occur?
- Wrong mildew
- root rot
- spider mites
Mountain knapweeds are very hardy in a favorable location. Most problems occur when the air humidity is too high or waterlogged.
To combat downy mildew, use a solution of 1 part fresh milk to 10 parts water. Plant parts infested with spider mites can be sprayed off with nettle decoction or soapy water.
If the plant smells rotten, root rot can be responsible. It occurs when the soil is too wet. Removing the entire plant usually helps with root rot.
Is winter protection required?
Mountain knapweeds are hardy. Nevertheless, a light winter protection from leaves, compost or brushwood is recommended, especially if you have just planted the perennials.
When caring for them in the bucket, place the pot on an insulating surface and wrap the perennial with fleece, bubble wrap or sacking. Place the pot in a sheltered corner on the patio.
tips
In order for mountain knapweeds to really come into their own, you should plant them in groups. Find a location that is as sunny as possible, as hardly any flowers will develop in shady places.