{"id":314,"date":"2023-10-15T12:10:41","date_gmt":"2023-10-15T12:10:41","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/knowdrive.com\/blog\/2023\/10\/15\/candytuft\/"},"modified":"2023-10-15T12:10:41","modified_gmt":"2023-10-15T12:10:41","slug":"candytuft","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/knowdrive.com\/blog\/2023\/10\/15\/candytuft\/","title":{"rendered":"Candytuft"},"content":{"rendered":"

Candytuft: Easy-Growing Perennial Border Plants<\/h1>\n

In their natural climate, candytufts can be found in rocky, sandy regions. They\u2019ve developed over time to really hate having wet feet, and they\u2019re drought tolerant. So it\u2019s absolutely essential that you don\u2019t overwater them!<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Growing Candytuft: The Candytuft Flower In Your Garden<\/h2>\n

\"White<\/p>\n

The candytuft plant (Iberis sempervirens<\/em>) is a European native that has adapted well to most USDA zones. The 12 to 18 inch (31-46 cm.) beauty is a flowering, evergreen perennial with a few must do\u2019s for appropriate candytuft care and continued performance.<\/p>\n

How to Grow Candytuft<\/h2>\n

Candytuft care involves planting in well draining, alkaline soil in a sunny location as the candytuft plant won\u2019t grow in shade or overly damp soil. Acidic soil may need amendments such as lime to produce the candytuft plant. Growing candytuft is worth the effort as the delicate flowers appear in early spring through summer, often reblooming in fall.<\/p>\n

The candytuft flower is usually white, but some cultivars have pink or lilac blooms. This plant does well in gravelly soil, making it a perfect small specimen for a sunny rock garden or border planting.<\/p>\n

Once blooms of the candytuft flower are spent, cut the entire candytuft plant back to ground level to avoid woodiness of the stems. This should be done at least every other year to prevent this short, blooming beauty from becoming too tall with spindly growth. The candytuft plant is actually a woody plant, but is most attractive when treated as an herbaceous perennial.<\/p>\n

Growing candytuft from seeds or cuttings is a money-saving way to have more of the aesthetically pleasing plants. Sow seeds of the candytuft flower directly into flower beds when soil has warmed to about 70 degrees F. (21 C.). Softwood cuttings of existing plants propagate easily during midsummer for more candytuft flowers to plant in your gardens or to share with friends.<\/p>\n

Uses for Candytuft Plant<\/h2>\n

Botanically known as Iberis semperiverns<\/em>, masses of striking blooms appear on the well-kept candytuft flower. The white candytuft flower is compatible with a range of tall, blooming annuals and perennials and is the perfect height to cover tall, bloomless stems of flowers such as zinnia, cosmos, and evening primrose.<\/p>\n

Candytuft flowers are handy to cover up declining foliage of early spring blooming bulbs. Candytuft flowers look lovely spilling over a wall or draping from a hanging basket. Now that you know the many uses of this plant and how to grow candytuft, you\u2019ll want to give it a prominent spot in your summer garden.<\/p>\n

Candytuft: Easy-Growing Perennial Border Plants<\/h2>\n

Looking for a low-maintenance plant for borders, or a good erosion-control ground cover for areas with no foot traffic? Consider candytuft!<\/p>\n

Written by Lorin Nielsen Last updated: March 2, 2023 | 8 min read<\/p>\n

\"Candytuft\"<\/p>\n

The name candytuft elicits all sorts of cutesy references for me! When I first heard it, my mind immediately went to something straight out of a cartoon. I expected it to be vividly pink, maybe resembling cotton candy.<\/p>\n

In reality, this decorative sub-shrub produces a dense flush of white flowers twice a year. And while my hopes of a Dr. Seussian-style plant may have been dashed, I do love candytuft nonetheless. It\u2019s an easy grower, looks fantastic in borders, and consistently produces blooms.<\/p>\n

Low-maintenance and relatively carefree, candytuft\u2019s well worth a place in your garden. And truth be told, I\u2019m happy it\u2019s not cotton-candy pink. I like it just as it is!<\/p>\n

So let\u2019s explore the uses of this plant. From border edging to low-lying shrub, a mounding ground cover to a container-grown plant, there\u2019s plenty of potential here.<\/p>\n

Good Products At Amazon For Candytuft Maintenance:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Quick Care Guide<\/h2>\n

\"Candytuft\"<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Scientific Name<\/strong><\/td>\nIberis sempervirens<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Common Name(s)<\/strong><\/td>\nCandytuft, evergreen candytuft, perennial candytuft<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Family<\/strong><\/td>\nBrassicaceae<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Height and Spread<\/strong><\/td>\nUp to 12\u2033 tall, 24\u2033 wide<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Light<\/strong><\/td>\nCandytuft likes full sun for flowering. Partial shade OK in zones 8-9.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Soil<\/strong><\/td>\nExtremely well-draining, gravelly. Avoid hard clay.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Water<\/strong><\/td>\nDrought-tolerant. 3\/4\u2033 to 1\u2033 per week, but check soil first<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Pests and Diseases<\/strong><\/td>\nVery few pests. At risk of fungal root rot from overwatering.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

All About the Candytuft Plant<\/h2>\n

The name \u201ccandytuft\u201d derives not from candy, but from an city. Candia was the former name of Heraklion, the capital of the Greek island Crete. And it\u2019s from that southern European region where it originates.<\/p>\n

There\u2019s nearly fifty species of plant that fall into the Iberis genus, but of these one\u2019s very popular. Iberis sempervirens, the evergreen candytuft plant, produces vividly dark green foliage. And indeed, the term \u201csempervirens\u201d means \u201calways green\u201d.<\/p>\n

Other forms of Iberis are also referred to as candytuft. Yet this particular variety continues to be a garden staple. Its flowers, when they form in spring or fall, create a cloud-like mass atop the mounding plant.<\/p>\n

There is at least one variation that lives up to the \u201ccandy\u201d name. The \u201cPink Ice\u201d cultivar of Iberis sempervirens produces pale pink flowers. Most others are all white with yellow centers.<\/p>\n

Because of that mass of flowers, they\u2019re excellent at drawing in pollinators. They also are somewhat drought-resistant, making them a good choice in low water uses. Their mounded foliage does not spread rapidly, but can be an effective ground cover.<\/p>\n

As an edging plant, they excel. These make wonderful plants along sidewalks or porches. Their proliferation of foliage and flowers will tumble out of planters, too.<\/p>\n

Candytuft Plant Care<\/h2>\n

\"Closeup<\/p>\n

Iberis plants are easy to care for. These are very low-maintenance. Once established, they can recover well from adverse conditions. But let\u2019s talk about the perfect growing conditions for this plant!<\/p>\n

Light and Temperature<\/h3>\n

It\u2019s generally said that candytuft survives well as a perennial in USDA zones 5-9. But there\u2019s slightly different methods of growing it when the weather gets warm.<\/p>\n

Gardeners in zones 5-7 should place their plants in full sun where they\u2019ll get plenty of light. Candytuft tends to provide the best show of flowers this way. Those in zones 8-9 should opt for partial shade, primarily afternoon shade. As temperatures soar in summer, the shade gives them a break from the hottest part of the day.<\/p>\n

The seeds need rather warm soil temps to germinate \u2013 75 to 85 degrees (24 to 29 degrees C) is not uncommon. An established plant can tolerate higher ranges, although extra moisture may be necessary.<\/p>\n

When the temperatures drop, especially in cold regions, a little protection helps. Gardeners in zone 5 should consider mulching at the plant\u2019s base. Some choose to lay pine boughs over their plants in the winter to provide protection from icy winds.<\/p>\n

Water and Humidity<\/h3>\n

In their natural climate, candytufts can be found in rocky, sandy regions. They\u2019ve developed over time to really hate having wet feet, and they\u2019re drought tolerant. So it\u2019s absolutely essential that you don\u2019t overwater them!<\/p>\n

For most plants, 3\/4ths of an inch to an inch of water per week is fine. Water when the soil is dry in the top couple inches. This may be more frequent during the summertime. Younger plants will need more consistent watering as they become established.<\/p>\n

Unfortunately, their natural environment tends to have drier air conditions. They may be tolerant of a lack of soil moisture, but they\u2019re wimpy vs. humidity. Plants may wilt if the humidity rises. Because of this, they\u2019re not recommended for the southeastern United States.<\/p>\n

Soil<\/h3>\n

Gravelly or sandy soil in rock gardens and xeriscaping is perfect for your plant, as it mimics their natural environment. Try to avoid clay soil which lacks drainage, because that can spell doom for the roots of your plant. Remember, these are drought tolerant plants.<\/p>\n

Soil with poor fertility isn\u2019t that much of a challenge for the plant, nor is alkaline soil. In fact, perennial candytuft prefers slightly-alkaline soil. It can grow in neutral soil as well. Try to avoid acidic conditions.<\/p>\n

Fertilizer<\/h3>\n

Provide fertilizer early in the spring for your plant. A slow-release balanced granular organic fertilizer is best. Work it into the soil in a ring around the plant\u2019s base, trying to keep it directly above the roots.<\/p>\n

During the growing season, you can provide a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorous fertilizer to your rock gardens if needed. This will spur abundant flowering. But space out the fertilizing quite a bit. These plants often receive no fertilizer at all and still manage to grow well.<\/p>\n

Candytuft Propagation<\/h3>\n

\"Candytuft<\/p>\n

Three methods are used to propagate this plant: seeds, cuttings, or root division.<\/p>\n

Seeds take roughly two weeks to germinate. They won\u2019t germinate unless the soil temperature is warm, between 75-85 degrees. It should also be moist enough to spur germination. When spring flowers fade, they will happily self-sow and new plants will appear in the early summer.<\/p>\n

Cuttings are a bit trickier. You should select green and healthy stems that are getting a bit long. They will self-root from leaf nodes along the stems, and can be propagated via air layering. It takes a while for the roots to develop, so have patience with this method.<\/p>\n

Root division is best done in the fall as it\u2019s beginning to go dormant for the winter. Take care when dividing the plant to not break off the long stems. Ensure that you get both stems and roots in each clump, and don\u2019t split it into small segments. One large plant can be divided into 2-3 smaller plants.<\/p>\n

Pruning Candytuft<\/h3>\n

These plants are fairly self-regulating in regards to their height. At a certain point, the stems will just bend back down to the ground. They will self-root if a leaf node is covered, enabling them to slowly spread. If you want to avoid spreading, trim longer stems with clean pruning snips.<\/p>\n

After the candytuft flowers have faded in the fall, you can trim the plant back by a third to help regulate its size. This will also reduce the chance of the plant becoming leggy.<\/p>\n

Sometimes legginess is desired, especially if these are planted in raised locations. The long stems will drape down along planters and retaining walls. If you\u2019re trying for that effect, don\u2019t prune and you\u2019ll find it happens naturally!<\/p>\n

Candytuft As A Ground Cover<\/h3>\n

I\u2019ve mentioned a couple times that perennial candytuft can be used as a ground cover plant. If you\u2019re looking to do this, plant individual plants about 6\u2033 apart. If you\u2019re in zones 5-7 and just barely into 8, full sun is perfect. In the hotter parts of 8 and 9, afternoon shade is desirable.<\/p>\n

Make sure the soil is extremely well-draining. It\u2019s best if the soil is sandy or gravelly before you begin. People with heavy clay soils will need to amend their soil to break up the clay at least 12\u2033 deep.<\/p>\n

As it begins to produce longer stems, use a fingertip to press areas with leaf nodes under the soil\u2019s surface. This encourages those nodes to develop roots and form new plants to fill in.<\/p>\n

A slow grower, it will take a while for your candytuft ground cover to fill in completely. Once it does, maintenance is effortless. Just appreciate the flush of white flowers twice a year and enjoy it.<\/p>\n

This plant is not tolerant of heavy foot traffic. Avoid areas where people or pets frequent daily.<\/p>\n

As an erosion-prevention cover, it\u2019s phenomenal. I wouldn\u2019t recommend it as a lawn replacement option. But if you\u2019ve got a hillside you\u2019d like to remain evergreen, this is a perfect choice. It sits close to the ground and will self-seed year after year.<\/p>\n

Troubleshooting<\/h2>\n

You\u2019re unlikely to experience major issues with this plant. Pests are almost nonexistent, and most of the diseases don\u2019t cause severe harm. But here\u2019s how to treat what few problems may arise!<\/p>\n

Growing Problems and Diseases<\/h3>\n

Your largest risk factor while growing Iberis sempervirens is pythium-based root rot<\/strong> or crown rot. Caused by too much moisture in the soil, this fungal rot will cause your plants to yellow. Growth will be reduced, and if the moisture isn\u2019t reduced your plant may die off. You may be able to carefully remove the plant from the soil and trim off damaged roots, then replant.<\/p>\n

Fungal leaf spots are another relatively common issue. Largely caused by alternaria fungi<\/strong> or xanthomonas bacteria<\/strong>, these leaf spots are treatable.<\/p>\n

Botrytis cinerea<\/strong> can also cause damage to the plant. These will cause fuzzy grey fungal spores on the leaves. Downy mildew<\/strong> will make a dusty grey powder form on leaves as well.<\/p>\n

Of these disease issues, by far the worst will be the root rot. Most of the other diseases can be treated using a liquid copper fungicidal spray. For bacterial issues, you can use an organic fungicde that contains bacillus subtilis.<\/p>\n

Pests<\/h3>\n

Most pests tend to leave your candytuft alone. Some stubborn aphids<\/strong> may appear if your area is prone to them, but they don\u2019t cause much harm. Spider mites<\/strong> may occur in potted or planter-grown plants as well.<\/p>\n

As a general rule, your plants are very unlikely to be subject to most pest attacks. In the rare occasion that they appear, treat according to the pest. Most respond well to the base practices for that pest type. Encouraging beneficial insects will handle most problems, though. Most of the time, the only control you\u2019ll need is a little neem oil.<\/p>\n

Wildlife like deer and rabbits do not find candytuft appealing. In part, this may be because the candytuft flowers don\u2019t have a sweet scent. But regardless of reason, these are great in deer-proof or rabbit-proof gardening!<\/p>\n

Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n

Q: Do I have to worry about candytuft being invasive?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

A: Generally speaking, no. While it does spread, it\u2019s a very slow and manageable spread. You shouldn\u2019t have to worry about it growing like a weed in your garden.<\/p>\n

Q: Does Candytuft bear fruit?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

A: Yes and no. It will produce a seed pod of sorts, but it\u2019s inedible. Technically it is a fruit form, but it\u2019s not what we consider to be \u201cfruit\u201d. You won\u2019t find ornamental berries or other visually-appealing forms of fruiting here.<\/p>\n

Q: Why are there spots appearing on my candytuft plant\u2019s leaves?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

A: Leaf spotting is usually a sign of one of two disease types. Alternaria fungi can cause spotting. So too can the bacteria known as Xanthomonas. Happily, both are treatable conditions!<\/p>\n

Q:<\/em><\/strong> Does candytuft come back every year?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

A: In its hardiness range, it remains evergreen and does return in spring.<\/p>\n

Q:<\/em><\/strong> Does candytuft need full sun?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

A: Candytuft is a plant that needs a lot of sun. 6 hours of full sun per day is best.<\/p>\n

Q:<\/em><\/strong> What does candytuft look like in winter?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

A: While the plant will not have the characteristic, cloud-forming flowers, it will retain its lovely evergreen foliage.<\/p>\n

Q:<\/em><\/strong> Where should I plant candytuft?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

A: Candytuft does best in a spot with well drained soil and full sun. Put it in an area where it won\u2019t crowd out slower growing plants.<\/p>\n

Q:<\/em><\/strong> Should I cut back candytuft after it blooms?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

A: If you prune back the flowers in spring and fall when the plant blooms, you can get a second round of blooms.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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