Aubretia

[herbivore]

I have a problem in growing aubretia. This is a bit odd because ,from what I have read, this plant is fairly tolerant of most conditions.

But having bought several plants (sometimes from different garden centres) and planted them in various parts of the garden, they live for a time then gradually appear to turn white from the centre and this spreads to the whole of the plant which then dies. I do water(using soft rainwater when available) in dry weather but to no avail. Any suggestions appreciated!

[gardening_guru]

Hello,

I'm not sure what is going on here. If you are growing Aubretia in full sun in well drained soil you should have no problems. After flowering, Aubretia do begin to look tired and I always cut them back to the base straight after flowering. (Really hard back, leaving no leaves) This generates fresh, healthy new foliage and with plenty of time for new flowers to develop for next year.

[herbivore]

Thanks for taking an interest in my problem. I am not sure what is going on either! I fear that if I cut back the bit that is left there will be nothing left to see! A friend has suggested that perhaps they only like acid soil but that doesn't seem right as I somtimes find 'self-sets' growing vigorously in tiny cracks in the edge of the drive or rockery.. Could it be that they don't like open ground? I'd like to send you a photo but being a newcomer to this site can't seem to find a facility to do so.

[gardening_guru]

send photos to george@plantadvice.co.uk

[herbivore]

Many thanks gardening Guru-I will endeavour to get photos this weekend.

[herbivore]

Hi Gardening Guru

-Thought you might like some feedback on what has been happening to my aubretia since I followed your advice and cut the plants back. I am pleased to report that most of them are showing signs of improvement. Although smaller after my nifty work with a pair of scissors they look much healthier and I am confident they will eventually grow into good plants- just a couple are not too good and they may go either way. But at least an 80% improvement overall. Many thanks for your good advice!