How to plant Tradescantia
Tradescantia are a varied and diverse genus of deciduous and evergreen plants, ranging from tender house plants to hardy garden perennials such as Spiderwort. In this guide we will refer to the hardy perennial varieties. Despite their exotic look, these tough perennials are both low maintenance and easy to grow, forming attractive clumps at the front of sunny or lightly shaded borders.
Their arching stems of strap-shaped leaves bear curious 3 petalled flowers. Each bloom is individually short-lived but new blooms appear in quick succession, creating an impressive flowering period from June through to September. Tradescantia associate well with other summer perennials to create that timeless cottage garden look. As a bonus, they’ll attract pollinating insects to the garden too!
How to plant
- Plant Tradescantia in spring between February and May, ideally within a week of delivery.
- Soak the roots in water for 3-6 hours prior to planting. Pot into temporary 2 litre (or 15-20cm diameter) pots, using a good quality multi-purpose compost. Plant so that the roots are fully submerged, and with the crown/buds just level with the soil surface. Any emerging shoots or leaves should be left exposed.
- Grow them on in a sheltered spot outside. They can be transplanted to suitable positions after 2-4 months or once growth is established and the plant easily comes out of the pot with the soil intact with the roots.
- When planting out, choose a position in sun or light shade. Whilst they can grow well in shade, some sun promotes flowering. In sunny gardens, it will appreciate a little shade in the afternoon. Tradescantia prefers a moist, fertile and well drained soil.
- This perennial is fully hardy and does not require winter protection.
- Water-in after planting and keep hydrated when in growth, particularly during the first year.
Aftercare
- Tradescantia will start to produce new growth in spring. Flowers follow throughout summer.
- Spiderwort can lean or flop as the stems lengthen and mature. They can be supported with twiggy sticks, or you can cut them back if that happens to allow fresh growth to emerge.
- After flowering, cut back the old stems to promote more flowers and make way for new stems. This also prevents self-seeding.
- Once established, Tradescantia needs little maintenance. Over crowded clumps can be lifted and divided in early spring or late autumn.