Setup, Compatibility & Care
Planting: Select a location with moist, well-draining soil. If your soil is sandy or heavy clay, amend it with organic matter before planting to improve structure.
Maintenance:
- Pruning: Conduct the first prune in July after the main flowering flush to shorten whippy green shoots. Perform a second prune in February to cut back growth to 2-3 buds, which encourages flower bud formation.
- Feeding: Apply a generous layer of mulch—either compost or well-rotted manure—around the base in Autumn or Spring to retain moisture and provide nutrients.
- Frost Protection: In areas prone to late Spring frosts, cover the plant with horticultural fleece if temperatures drop significantly, as frost can damage developing flower buds.