Candytuft 'Snowflake' (Iberis)

Where to Plant:

Commonly known as Perennial Candytuft, this low-growing, evergreen plant is perfect for the front of a border, for edging paths, or for spilling over the edges of walls and containers. It demands a position in full sun to produce its dazzling display of pure white flowers and to maintain a tight, compact habit. Sharply-drained soil is essential, as it will not tolerate wet conditions, particularly in winter. It thrives in gravel gardens and rockeries.

How to Plant:

You can plant container-grown specimens in spring or summer. Dig a hole that is the same depth as the pot and roughly twice as wide. Gently place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the rootball is level with the surrounding soil. If your soil is heavy, it is beneficial to mix some horticultural grit into the planting hole. Backfill with soil, firm gently, and water it in well to help it establish. Space individual plants about 30cm apart to allow them to form a dense mat.

Aftercare:

This plant is very low-maintenance. The most important task is to give the entire plant a light trim with shears or secateurs immediately after it has finished flowering in late spring. This prevents the plant from becoming woody and leggy, keeping it neat and encouraging a dense cushion of foliage. Once established, it is very drought-tolerant and will not require feeding.