To grow purple rock cress successfully, you need to provide it with the right growing conditions. Here are some detailed steps to help you grow this beautiful plant:
1. Choose a sunny spot: Purple rock cress, or Aubrieta, thrives in full sun. It needs at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to grow and bloom to its full potential. So, find a location in your garden that receives ample sunlight throughout the day.
2. Prepare the soil: Rock cress prefers well-drained soil. Before planting, make sure to loosen the soil and remove any weeds or rocks. You can also amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve its fertility and drainage.
3. Planting: Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the purple rock cress plant. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the plant. Space multiple plants around 8 to 12 inches apart to allow them room to spread.
4. Watering: While rock cress is drought-resistant, it still requires regular watering, especially during the establishment period. Water the plant deeply after planting to promote root growth. Afterward, water the plant whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. However, it’s crucial to avoid overwatering or planting rock cress in an area prone to waterlogging, as this can cause root rot.
5. Mulching: Apply a thin layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or straw, around the base of the plant. Mulching helps retain moisture in the soil, suppresses weed growth, and regulates soil temperature. Just ensure that the mulch is not piled against the stem of the plant to prevent rotting.
6. Fertilizing: Purple rock cress generally doesn’t require heavy feeding. However, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to provide essential nutrients. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for application rates.
7. Pruning: After the blooming period, you can trim back the spent flowers to promote a more compact and tidy growth habit. However, avoid cutting back too much foliage, as rock cress blooms on the previous year’s growth. Pruning can also help rejuvenate older plants and encourage new growth.
8. Dividing: Over time, rock cress can become congested or spread beyond its desired area. To prevent this, you can divide the plant every few years in early spring or fall. Dig up the plant, carefully separate the clumps, and replant them in their new locations. This process helps maintain the plant’s vigor and promotes better flowering.
Growing purple rock cress is relatively easy as long as you provide it with the right growing conditions. With its vibrant purple flowers cascading over rocks or in garden beds, it can be a beautiful addition to any landscape. Remember to give it enough sunlight, well-drained soil, and adequate water, and you’ll enjoy its charming beauty for years to come.
