Bergenias: How to grow
hat we need now is a plant like ‘Eric Smith’ - but with a neat variegated edge. I expect a plant breeder somewhere is working on it.
How to Grow
Bergenias are undemanding, growing happily in shade or sun as long as the soil is not too dry. Colour is often better in less fertile soil while spring foliage and flower is more impressive in richer conditions.
Nip off old foliage as it turns brown so plants look smart before the spring bulbs flower. Mulch annually. When clumps become gappy lift, discard the older woody growth and replant the young strong shoots. Vine weevil can be troublesome, so use biological control or Provado Vine Weevil Killer 2.
Good Companions
Early bulbs are ideal partners. Set around clump-forming bergenias and slip among the roots of those with a more open habit. Plant both bulbs and bergenias at the same time in the autumn, or use a slender bulb trowel to slip bulbs in among established bergenias.
‘Atkinsii’ snowdrops are ideal around ‘Eric Smith’ or among those with looser growth. Or try ice-blue Scilla mischtschenkoana, dainty Crocus tommasinianus and wood anemones.
Where to Buy
Barracott Plants (01822 832234; www.barracottplants.co.uk).
Beth Chatto Gardens (01206 822007; www.bethchatto.co.uk).
Futureprimitive Plants (07792 376 401; www.futureprimitiveplants.co.uk).
Where to See
Bergenia trials at RHS Wisley, Surrey (0845 260 9000; www.rhs.org.uk) are open to the public.
A National Collection is held at Greenbank Garden, Glasgow (0844 493 2201; www.nts.org.uk).
In the Beth Chatto Gardens (see above), they are planted with well chosen companions.
Tags: mulch, plants, soil0
