With its delicate flowers and airy vibe, Gypsophila adds a touch of softness and whimsy to the garden. Its tiny, cloud-like blooms in shades of white and pink create an ethereal beauty that complements any garden.
Planting Calendar
Gypsophila are usually available in late spring and summer for planting. But can be sown by seed from summer through to spring.
Prepare
Position
Gypsophila should be grown in full sun, or light shade and in a rich, fine soil.
Soil
When planted into the ground Gypsophila 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, 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 and a side dressing of lime, 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
Water deeply during periods of dry weather. Water slowly allowing the water to sink down to the root zone where it is needed.
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
In exposed positions, particularly in strong winds, plants may need some additional support through staking.
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.
Spraying
Gypsophila is generally pest free.
Pruning
Once established, it is advisable not to disturb the plant clumps. Cut old stalks back to ground level as the blooms fade to encourage further flowering.
Expert Tip
Gypsophila prefers an alkaline soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0. If necessary, apply garden lime at the rate of around 1 tablespoon per square meter to raise the pH by 1.0 until you get a reading between 6.0 and 7.0.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water Gypsophila?
Water deeply during periods of dry weather. Water slowly allowing the water to sink down to the root zone where it is needed.
Can Gypsophila grow in full sun?
Gypsophila should be grown in full sun, or light shade and in a rich, fine soil.
How do I prune Gypsophila?
Once established, it is advisable not to disturb the plant clumps. Cut old stalks back to ground level as the blooms fade to encourage further flowering.
What type of soil is best for Gypsophila?
Gypsophila prefers well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
When is the best time to plant Gypsophila?
The best time to plant Gypsophila is in spring after the last frost or in early autumn.