Growing and Maintenance Tips

Heucheras are easy perennials to grow and fit nicely in the front of any border, rock garden, or container. They grow most vigorously and have the stongest colours when grown in partial shade (preferably afternoon shade). They can also be grown in full shade but their growth rate will be very slow and flower production poor.  Some varieties can withstand full sun if they have consistant moisture, but their colours tend to fade with the intensity of the sun.  The soil should be amended with organic matter prior to planting.  It should also have good drainage and a neutral pH.  If properly sited out of the way of winter winds and with reliable snow cover, gardeners in our area may find that Heucheras are evergreen. If the plant looks tattered by early spring, shear off any damaged leaves to make room for the vibrant new foliage which will fill in quickly. Heucheras can be grown under Black Walnut trees because they are resistant to the toxin Juglone which the trees emit from their roots. Heucheras are also salt tolerant. They are useful along pathways which are salted in winter.  Occasionally Heucheras have a tendency to heave out of the ground because of the freeze/thaw cycle. To combat heaving, add an extra layer of compost around the plant's roots in the fall. In the spring, if the plants have heaved the new roots will grow into the fresh new layer of compost.