Growing Calluna (Heather, Ling)

Pronunciation: kuh-loon'uh  

Plant Calluna out of the way of winter winds in full sun and well-drained, acidic soil that retains moisture. A 3–6″ layer of peat moss, dug in before planting, helps to satisfy all three soil requirements.

Plants prefer lean soil; do not fertilize. In Zones 4 (-30°F) and 5 (-20°F), cover lightly with evergreen boughs in late fall and spray an antidesiccant (available at garden centers) to prevent winter winds from "burning" the leaves. As new growth emerges in spring, prune to shape plants and to remove winter damage.