Extend heather's bloom with this simple watering trick

Heather is an ornament of many gardens and a sign of the arrival of colder days. Knowing the secrets of proper care, especially proper watering, is worth enjoying their beauty as long as possible.

Although heather plants are drought-tolerant, it does not mean that you can completely neglect watering them. Particularly young heather seedlings need regular hydration, especially during periods of high heat. The key element here is moderation – heather does not like stagnant water. Excess moisture can lead to root rot and fungal diseases, so it is crucial that the soil they grow in is well-drained.

Depending on the time of year, heather requires different care. In spring, before the vegetation period begins, it is worth trimming the heather shoots, which stimulates abundant flowering in the next season. During this period, watering is less important because the soil is usually still moist after the winter precipitation.

In summer, during high heat, watering is essential, especially for young plants and those planted in full sun. In the fall, when the heather blooms most beautifully, it is particularly important to ensure regular but moderate watering to extend the flowering period.

One of the most recommended methods for watering heather is using rainwater acidified with lemon juice. Why such a mixture? Heather prefers soil with a low pH, and lemon juice or citric acid perfectly acidifies the water, creating an environment conducive to the growth of these plants. Rainwater, due to its natural composition, is a better choice than tap water, which may contain too much calcium, negatively affecting the soil's pH.

To prepare such a mixture, add a few drops of lemon juice to a quart of rainwater and mix well. Water the heather regularly with this prepared water, especially just after planting, to provide the right conditions for rooting and growth.

Another home method is tea or coffee grounds, which also acidify the soil while providing plants with micronutrients.