Cultivation

Erica carnea and Erica x darleyensis are both easy to grow on any well-drained, fertile soil. They are reasonably drought-tolerant, but can suffer in prolonged hot, dry weather, especially when planted in full sun. So, although lime-tolerant, they are not ideal on shallow chalk unless plenty of organic matter is incorporated when planting. Regular watering is essential while plants are becoming established.

Heathers grown in small pots are best planted in groups of three or five, 30cm apart, where they will grow together to form larger, undulating mats. The secret of success is to trim the plants annually after flowering, cutting back to just below the flowers as they fade. This encourages new, branched growth and a bushy, compact habit. Mulching with leaf mould, compost and a light application of an ericaceous fertiliser after trimming is beneficial.

Heathers grow well in full sun and light shade and are ideal under the dappled shade of deciduous trees. In heavy shade, growth becomes drawn and flowering is poor. They are good, long-term subjects for pots and containers, especially when grown in a peat-free medium mixed with lime-free John Innes. This helps to retain moisture and nutrients. If callunas are grown permanently in pots, it is best to use a lime-free, ericaceous growing medium. Groups of winter-flowering heathers add evergreen interest and winter colour in beds and borders, and are also ideal in narrow planting spaces and alongside gravel and paving.