New products at Crocus
by Sarah - September 9th, 2010.Filed under: Crocus, New Products.
New lines at Crocus
yarrow £7.99
Position: full sunSoil: well-drained, including dryRate of Growth: averageFlowering period: August to OctoberHardiness: fully hardyFlowering later than many other yarrows, this one has the same attractive grey-green foliage, from which upright stems emerge bearing flattened heads of pale yellow flowers, which turn to milky white as they mature. After they have faded, the developing seedheads create an attractive silhouette, which remains interesting well into winter if you don’t cut it back. A good mixer with other late perennials such as Asters, it also works really well with ornamental grasses.Garden care: Stake using bamboo canes or brushwood before the flowers appear. Cut down to the ground in late winter, but resist the urge to do this earlier, as the seed heads look lovely in the winter light. Lift and divide large clumps in late autumn or early spring.
Hardy gerbera £6.99
Position: full sunSoil: moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soilRate of growth: average to fast-growingFlowering period: May to OctoberFlowering colour: pinkHardiness: frost hardy (may need protection in winter)Soft pink ray florets surround a slightly darker central disc, creating a subtle pastel flowerhead that will blend particularly easily with richer pinks, lilacs and purples. They will also make attractive and long-lived cut flowers.Garden Care: Water freely when actively growing, but avoid excessive winter wet. In colder areas grow in a pot and move to an sheltered spot when the temperatures drop.
knautia £6.99
Position: full sunSoil: moderately-fertile, well-drained, preferably alkaline soilRate of growth: average Flowering period: July to SeptemberHardiness: fully hardyDeep crimson, pincushion-like flowers appear on slender stems from July to September. This is a dwarf variety of the popular perennial that is more compact, but still has good-sized flowers that grow up to 5cm (2in) across and will bring long-lasting colour to a mixed or herbaceous border. It’s best planted in well-drained, soil in full sun and supported with twiggy pea sticks. Although it prefers alkaline soil, it will thrive in neutral soil, too. It is a magnet for beees and butterflies. Garden care: Support with twiggy pea sticks or brushwood well before the flowers appear. Cut down to the ground in autumn. This plant is susceptible to powdery mildew. To help prevent this, mulch well with rotted manure or compost in autumn and keep it well watered.
Gaura Vanilla £6.49
Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, moist but well-drained soilRate of growth: average to fast-growing Flowering period: May to SeptemberHardiness: fully hardyLoose panicles of pure white, butterfly-like flowers, form billowing clouds above the fresh green foliage. It has an upright habit, which makes it an ideal companion for low-growing ornamental grasses, and it will also look impressive when potted up on a sunny patio.Garden care: Resist the temptation to cut back after the plant has flowered, as it often takes on beautiful autumn tints, particularly in cold weather. Cut back and divide large colonies in spring.
gaura £6.49
Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, moist but well-drained soilRate of growth: average to fast-growing Flowering period: May to SeptemberHardiness: fully hardyCompact and very free-flowering, this delightful cultivar produces vibrant, hot pink flowers above the red-flushed, green leaves. It will gradually become more tolerant of drought as it matures, and will look impressive when planted in bold, irregular drifts throughout the border.Garden care: Resist the temptation to cut back after the plant has flowered, as it often takes on beautiful autumn tints, particularly in cold weather. Cut back and divide large colonies in spring.