Scotch heather
Calluna vulgaris 'Spring Torch'
Overview
Scotch Heather (Calluna Vulgaris 'Spring Torch') is an amazing plant to have in any garden. It features delicate clusters of bright pink flowers that bloom in early spring, closely followed by deep green foliage. In the summer the foliage turns to a bright bronze colour and remains that way through winter. It's low growing, and makes a great choice for containers, rock or gravel gardens and even as a ground cover. Its low water needs make it an ideal choice for a xeriscape or low water garden. The drought tolerant foliage and seemingly eternal colour makes it a great choice for any garden.
Care Guide
Watering
Scotch heather (Calluna vulgaris 'Spring Torch') should generally be watered about once a week. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out in between waterings. Do not let the plant sit in wet soil for too long as this can cause root rot. In hotter temperatures and during periods of direct sunlight, you may need to water more frequently. In cooler temperatures, you may water slightly less often. Monitor the soil conditions and adjust water accordingly.
Light
Scotch heather (Calluna vulgaris 'Spring Torch') plants thrive in full sun and require at least 4 to 6 hours daily. If a Scotch heather plant does not receive adequate amounts of sunlight throughout the day, it will not reach its full potential and may struggle to produce flowers or leaves. The best time for a Scotch heather plant to receive sunlight is in the morning and midday, as this will give it the necessary energy to grow and develop. It is important to make sure that the plant is not getting too much direct sunlight at once, as this can cause it to become scorched and damaged.
Soil
Acidic, Rocky , gravelly , dry, Well-drained
Temperature
Hardiness zone 4–6.
Pruning
Scotch heather (Calluna vulgaris 'Spring Torch') should be pruned annually late in the summer, typically at the end of August. Pruning should be moderate to light. Remove no more than a third of the stems per plant, taking off the oldest stems first. Pruning may be done with pruning shears, but scissoring is the preferred method as it preserves the mounding shape of the plant. Dead, dried flower heads should also be removed during this time.
Propagation
Seed Propagation, Cutting
Diseases & Pests
Common pests: Mites, Root rot, Pest resistant, Deer resistant, Drought resistant .
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