Althea - Red Heart

Directions for Planting and Care

Planting and caring for your Althea - Red Heart is simple, ensuring a beautiful display of its striking white flowers with a crimson-red center.

Planting

Select the Right Location: Choose a spot with full sun to partial shade, as Althea - Red Heart thrives in sunlight, which promotes abundant blooms. Ensure the area allows enough space for the shrub to reach its mature height of 8–12 feet and spread of 6–8 feet.

Prepare the Soil: Well-draining soil is essential for healthy growth. This shrub adapts to various soil types but performs best in fertile, well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy clay, mix in organic matter like compost to improve drainage.

Dig a Proper Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball to provide ample space for root establishment.

Plant the Shrub: Carefully remove the plant from its container, gently loosen the root ball, and place it in the hole. Ensure the top of the root system is level with the ground. Backfill with native soil and lightly press down to eliminate air pockets.

Water Thoroughly: After planting, give the shrub a deep watering to help settle the soil and support root development.

Care

Regular Watering: Water weekly during the first growing season to help establish a strong root system. Once mature, Althea - Red Heart is moderately drought-tolerant and only needs watering during prolonged dry spells.

Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to maintain its shape and encourage prolific blooming. Removing dead or weak branches will improve air circulation and promote healthier growth.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to enhance growth and flower production. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can lead to more foliage at the expense of blooms.

With its long-lasting flowers and minimal maintenance needs, Althea - Red Heart is a perfect addition to any garden. Whether used as a hedge, border, or standout feature, this elegant shrub will provide a season-long display of captivating blooms and attract pollinators to your landscape.