Transform your outdoor garden into a vibrant haven with the enchanting Alternanthera! Its low-maintenance nature and remarkable beauty will bring a burst of colour to your garden.
Planting Calendar
Alternanthera can be planted throughout the year.
Prepare
A compact, spreading ground cover with burgundy-purple foliage and producing cream, pompom-like flowers in Spring. Grown primarily for its colourful foliage.
Position
Can be grown in either full sun to partial shade in a free draining soil rich in organic matter. Alternanthera can also be grown in pots.
Soil
When planted into the ground alternanthera prefers a free-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well. When growing in containers, plant into Kings Container mix. This mix contains Saturaid, which helps with moisture retention in the soil.
Care
Watering
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil. a
Feeding
When planted in the ground liquid feed every month with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster, from Spring through to the end of Autumn, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health. If planted into a container, feed with Kings Liquid Fast Food along with monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster this encourages strong roots and a healthy immune system.
Protecting
Alternanthera can tolerate light frost but protect from harsh frosts by covering with frost cloth.
Mulching
Mulch around the base of the plants (making sure it is not in direct contact with the trunk) with Living Earth More than Mulch. Mulching helps to reduce weeds as well as aiding the soil to lock moisture in the ground.
Pruning
Prune back in early spring to maintain shape.
Beginner Tip
Alternanthera looks great when planted with silver and green themes where its vivid foliage is the highlight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best location to plant Alternanthera?
Alternanthera thrives in a sunny to partly shaded location with well-draining soil. It enjoys warm conditions and grows well in sheltered spots.
How often should I water my Alternanthera?
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil. a
How do I prune Alternanthera?
Prune back in early spring to maintain shape.
How can I propagate Alternanthera?
Alternanthera can be easily propagated through stem cuttings. Take a cutting with several nodes, remove the lower leaves, and place it in water or soil until roots develop.
What pests and diseases should I watch out for with Alternanthera?
Watch for common pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. Keep an eye out for leaf spot and root rot, which can occur in poorly drained soil.