Althea - Red

Directions for Planting and Care

Planting and caring for your Althea - Red is simple, ensuring a vibrant and long-lasting display of its striking red blooms.

Planting

Select the Right Location: Choose a spot with full sun to partial shade, as Althea - Red thrives in sunlight, which encourages abundant flowering. Ensure the area provides enough space for the shrub to reach its mature size of 10–15 feet in height and 6–10 feet in width.

Prepare the Soil: Well-draining soil is essential. Althea - Red adapts to various soil types, including loamy or sandy soils. If your soil is heavy clay, consider mixing in organic matter like compost to improve drainage.

Dig a Proper Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball to allow the roots to establish properly.

Plant the Shrub: Gently remove the plant from its container, break up the root system slightly with your hands, and position it in the hole. Ensure the top of the root ball is level with the ground. Backfill with the original soil, mixed with any remaining potting material, and lightly pack it down to remove air pockets.

Water Thoroughly: After planting, give the shrub a deep soak to help settle the soil and promote root establishment.

Care

Regular Watering: In its first growing season, water Althea - Red weekly to encourage strong root development. Once established, it becomes drought-tolerant and requires watering only during prolonged dry periods.

Pruning: To maintain a healthy shape and encourage more blooms, prune twice a year—once in late winter or early spring to remove dead or weak branches and again in mid-summer to enhance flowering. Deadheading spent blooms can also prolong the blooming period.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support vigorous growth and abundant flowers. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it may lead to more foliage at the expense of blooms.

With its dazzling red blossoms and ease of care, Althea - Red is a stunning addition to any landscape. Whether planted as a hedge, border, or standalone focal point, this hardy shrub will reward you with vibrant color and pollinator-friendly beauty all season long.