The rock cress: care on the back burner

The rock cress: care on the back burner

Can rockcress tolerate drought and heat?

Watering the rockcress is especially important immediately after planting. Later, the pouring takes a back seat. The rock cress should only be given additional watering in summer when the heat and drought are prolonged so that it does not dry out.

also read

  • Rockcress: is it hardy?
  • Planting and caring for rockcress
  • When is the flowering time for rockcress?

Remember to ensure good drainage when planting this perennial! The rockcress can withstand short dry periods. However, it cannot make friends with stagnant moisture, but quickly rots in the root area.

Can fertilization be dispensed with?

Clearly: yes. Rockcress doesn't need fertilizer to grow. However, if you want to get her off to a good start, give her some compost in the spring between February and March. That's enough for the whole season.

Are there any potential diseases or pests?

Rockcress is usually healthy because it has a robust character. In unfavorable locations and in bad weather, however, it can be attacked by diseases such as downy mildew. Pests such as snails usually stay away from it. From time to time, weakened plants can be attacked by aphids or gall flies.

Does the rockcress have to be overwintered?

Absolutely hardy - this is rockcress. Most species and varieties can tolerate frost down to -25 ° C. Therefore, no winter protection is required. A few species such as Arabis blepharophylla are a bit more sensitive to cold. They should be protected with brushwood from -10 ° C.

When and how is the pruning done?

This must be taken into account when cutting:

  • Cut back the entire perennial after flowering
  • Cut down by half or to 10 cm
  • Episode 1: New flowers can develop
  • Episode 2: The growth remains compact
  • In the case of smaller varieties, only cut away the faded flowers
  • Plant parts are edible

Tips

To keep the rockcress vigorous, it should be divided every 2 to 3 years in late summer.