Growing an alyssum plant and caring for it is not that difficult. All you have to know are just a few requirements of the plant. Here are the steps that you need follow.
Alyssum flowering plants belong to the family Brassicaceae and are native to Europe, Asia, Northern Africa, and the Mediterranean region. It is a small and easy-to-grow annual flower plant. The flowers are commonly found in shades of lavender, pink, violet, and white, accompanied by a fresh, delicate fragrance. White alyssum varieties are a popular choice among gardeners. Because they are annual in nature, these flowers bloom only once a year, go into a dormant state, and then grow again.
They are also a great edging plant because of their tidy, compact structure. They have a greater appeal when grown in the nooks of a rock garden. Container gardens, too, can be decorated with these flowers. Apart from being an accent plant, they are also used to fill gaps in flower beds.
Tips on Growing Alyssum Flower
The propagation of the alyssum flower is done through the seeds of the plant. They can be sown both indoors and outdoors. When sown indoors, they are grown in pots and are transferred to the garden later on. However, they must be transported only after the last frost. If you want to grow the alyssum plant outdoors, then it is advised to sow the seeds during spring. The early spring months are considered ideal for sowing them. While sowing, it is advisable to keep them 6-8 inches apart, so as to give the roots enough space to grow.
Keeping the soil dry until the plant blooms ensures better growth. The soil should have proper drainage, and the plants should be watered moderately. The seeds germinate in 7 to 14 days at 65 to 70 °F. During summer, the plants must be watered once or twice a week. General purpose fertilizer should be added to the soil to provide the plants with essential nutrients. Dead flowers and leaves must be trimmed off. Alyssum flower plants can also be grown in hanging baskets, as they give a cascading effect.
The alyssum plant prefers full to partial sun in the afternoon. Once it is strong enough, it will grow well until the first frost. Insects and diseases do not usually harm the growth of this plant. However, if any such factors occur, organic or chemical insect repellents and fungicide can be used for this purpose. These steps will help you grow alyssum flowers in your garden. Fulfill these basic requirements of the plant and enjoy seeing it in full bloom.