Heather care secrets: Extend bloom with homemade watering mix

Heathers are not only an ornament for many gardens but also a sign of the arrival of cooler days. To enjoy their beauty for as long as possible, it is worth knowing the secrets of proper care, especially proper watering.

Although heathers are drought-resistant plants, it does not mean that you can completely neglect their watering. Young heather plants, in particular, need regular hydration, especially during heatwaves. The key element here is moderation – heathers do not like water stagnation. Excess moisture can lead to root rot and fungal diseases, so the substrate they grow in must be well-drained.

Heathers require different care depending on the time of year. Before the growing season begins in the spring, it is worth trimming the heather shoots to stimulate abundant flowering in the next season. Watering is less important during this period because the soil is usually still moist from winter precipitation.

Watering is essential during heat waves in the summer, especially for young plants and those planted in full sun. In the fall, when heathers are in full bloom, it is especially important to ensure regular but moderate watering to extend the blooming period.

One of the most recommended ways to water heaters is to use rainwater acidified with lemon juice. Why this mixture? Heathers prefer soils with low pH, and lemon juice or citric acid perfectly acidifies the water, creating an environment conducive to the growth of these plants. Rainwater, due to its natural composition, is a better choice than tap water, which may contain too much calcium, negatively affecting the soil's pH.

To prepare such a mixture, just add a few drops of lemon juice to a quart of rainwater and mix well. Water the heathers regularly with this mixture, especially right after planting, to provide the right conditions for rooting and growth.

Another homemade method is tea or coffee grounds, which also acidify the soil while providing plants with micronutrients.