Since the diptam is a wild plant, it requires little care if it is planted in the right location and in a suitable substrate. What care is necessary?
How do I care for the diptam properly?
Diptam care includes sporadic watering in dry times, sparing fertilization outdoors or for potted plants, cutting back old parts in spring, protection from snails and, if necessary, rejuvenation division for propagation.
How well does the diptam tolerate dry times?
Diptam is perfect for dry soil. It therefore tolerates dry periods with flying colors. They just shouldn't last longer. Otherwise, watering is necessary. Even in summer heat, sporadic watering is worthwhile. You can safely use hard water from the tap for watering. Diptam loves a calcareous substrate. It is poured directly onto the root area.
Does diptam necessarily need fertilizer?
If the diptam is in the pot, it should be fertilized two to three times between March and September (sparingly!). If it is outdoors, it is sufficient to provide it with compost once in the spring. That's completely enough! If you fertilize it too much, you risk using the nutrients to produce lush foliage and not bloom.
Is pruning necessary?
When cutting, please note the following:
- no topiary necessary
- In the spring (before new growth) cut away the old parts from the previous year
- cut down to 20 cm above the ground
- dead and diseased parts should be removed regularly
- do not prune during the vegetation phase
- Do not cut away flowers as fruit stalks have ornamental value
Can pests be dangerous to him?
Normally the diptam is not affected by diseases. Only snails can make your hair stand on end. They love to eat the fresh shoots and leaves of this plant. Therefore: Be careful in spring that the diptam does not succumb to snail damage. For example, protect it in the first few weeks with a culture protection net (€14.00 on Amazon).
Should you share the dittany on rejuvenation?
As you get older, it can make sense to take a diploma. This serves on the one hand for rejuvenation and on the other hand for reproduction. After the rhizomes have been dug up, they are divided in the spring shortly before they sprout. Use a knife or spade for this.
Tip
You should wear protective or gardening gloves, especially when cutting and propagating. Otherwise, skin irritation could occur due to the toxins contained in the diptam.
