The elf flower is one of the longest-lasting garden plants. As ground cover, many species impress with their wintergreen foliage and the flowers are not bad parents either. But without a little care, elf flowers will soon lose out
How do you properly care for the elf flower?
Proper care for the elf flower includes regular watering without waterlogging, if necessary fertilizing with humus or compost in autumn or spring, slug pellets to prevent pests and annual, problem-free pruning to promote growth and flower formation.
Does the elf flower tolerate drought or does it need to be watered regularly?
Since the elf flower has a root system close to the surface, it does not reach the groundwater. It therefore depends on regular watering in the form of rain or irrigation water. It tolerates short periods of drought. But it is better to water them. However, you shouldn't exaggerate, because the fairy flower cannot cope with accumulated moisture.
Should you fertilize the elf flower?
If you leave the old foliage of the elf flower lying around, you don't need to fertilize it. It fertilizes itself with its leaves. It just doesn't look good for many gardeners, which is why they prefer to remove the old leaves
Then annual fertilization is appropriate. For fertilization, humus should be applied in combination with compost in autumn. Alternatively, fertilizer can be applied in spring. Liquid fertilizer and a moderate dosage of manure are also suitable for the elf flower. Fertilization is rewarded with good growth and a rich flower flora.
Are there any special diseases or pests that affect the fairy flower?
As a rule, the elf flower is not affected by diseases in its location. However, pests appear every now and then. Snails in particular can be a nightmare. Collect these or sprinkle slug pellets (€16.00 on Amazon) in spring if you don't want the fairy flower to suffer! Furthermore, thick-mouthed weevils can sometimes appear.
When and how is the elf flower cut?
This is what you need to keep in mind when cutting:
- (Radical) cutting is tolerated without any problems
- Cut back to avoid overgrowth and shape
- cut away spent inflorescences
- remove old leaves of wintergreen species before new growth in spring
- Hedge trimmers or lawnmowers are suitable for cutting large areas
- For small areas, secateurs are the first choice
Tip
Do not hoe weeds in the root area of the elf flower, which is considered slightly poisonous! It is better to pull weeds so as not to damage the roots.
