Hardy heaths, of which Erica carnea and its horticultural forms (named varieties) are good examples, are excellent rock garden plants, are attractive massed in front of evergreen or flowering shrubs, and, in perennial flower borders, provide a splendid change of pace, their needle-like leaves a pleasant contrast in texture.
The major delight in growing them is, of course, their flowers. They clothe the plants, and with most hardy forms, flowering starts in late winter and continues until spring.
Heaths Prefer Acid Soil
The heaths, like their relative’s heathers (calluna) which they resemble very closely, prefer acid soil and succeed in light or sandy soils where many other plants often fail. However, they will not thrive if the soil is limed or is on the alkaline side. A sunny situation is best, although they will do it in partial shade.
Three or more plants should be grouped for best effect, spaced 1 1/2 to 2 feet apart, planted in early spring, or fail. When the plants begin to crowd, a few in the group may be moved to other garden parts.
Cutting of Dwarf Kind Flower Heads
After flowering, the flower heads of the dwarf-growing kinds, such as the variety King George, a dwarf pink popular in Europe for years, should be cut off. This is the only pruning, in fact, about the superior care established plants require. However, failures may arise from insufficient moisture during dry spells, especially when the plants are young.
A leafmold or peat moss mulch in sandy soils helps prevent excessive drying. Once on their way, both heaths and heathers hold their own in the face of most adversities.
There are many varieties of hardy heaths from which to choose. And for mild climates, there are tender ones worth investigating.