The Gaura plant, often called the Butterfly Bush, is a garden favourite with its delicate, butterfly-like flowers. Its low-maintenance nature and the ability to attract pollinators make it an exquisite choice, adding a touch of natural grace and wildlife charm to any outdoor space.
Planting Calendar
Gaura are best planted in spring and summer when they are readily available in the garden centre.
Prepare
Gaura is a whimsical perennial plant that produces masses of pink or white flowers on long stems in spring through to autumn. With their bobbing flower stems that resemble a butterfly it will add its charm in cottage gardens, wild flowers planting in containers or in a mixed perennial boarder.
Position
Gaura does best when planted in full sun in a free draining soil.
Soil
When planted into the ground Gaura prefer 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.
Plant
When planting into the ground, ensure the plants is well watered then, gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant’s root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together. Backfill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay. When planting into containers plant into Kings Container Mix, as this has water retention crystals in it, which will help in keeping the soil moist.
Care
Watering
Gaura likes the soil to be just moist, 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, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods. Add Saturaid into the soil at planting time, as this helps to channel water down to the roots where it is needed the most.
Feeding
For strong healthy roots and plants, apply monthly applications of 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.
Protecting
Protect from slugs and snails with Quash.
Mulching
Mulching around plants can help conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed growth. Mulch around the base of the plants (making sure it is not in direct contact with the trunk or base of the plant) with Living Earth More than Mulch. Replenish mulch each spring.
Pruning
Thin flower stems tend to become leggy and flop, particularly when grown in rich soils. Plants often benefit from close planting or support from adjacent perennials. Plants may be cut back in late spring by 1/2 to control size.
General Care
When using sprays, chemicals or fertilisers always read the label and follow the instructions carefully. Apply sprays in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gaura?
Gaura, also known as bee blossom, is a perennial plant known for its delicate, butterfly-like flowers that bloom from spring to autumn.
Do I need to prune Gaura?
Thin flower stems tend to become leggy and flop, particularly when grown in rich soils. Plants often benefit from close planting or support from adjacent perennials. Plants may be cut back in late spring by 1/2 to control size.
How often should I fertilise Gaura?
For strong healthy roots and plants, apply monthly applications of 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.
Does Gaura attract pollinators?
Gaura is excellent for attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to your garden, making it a great choice for eco-friendly gardeners.
Can Gaura be grown in pots?
Gaura can be grown in pots. Ensure the pot has good drainage and use a high-quality potting mix. Water regularly, but avoid waterlogging.