How tall do ericas grow?
Ericas are usually low-growing shrubs that form spreading carpets or compact mounds, from as little as 15cm (6in) high, although they are usually around 30cm (1ft). Most are suitable for containers as well as borders. See our guide to looking after plants in containers. Ericas just need a light annual trim after flowering, to keep them compact and bushy. Ericas can be propagated by layering or taking cuttings.Most ericas need acid to neutral soil that is free-draining and doesn’t stay wet or waterlogged. They like an open, sunny position. These tough plants cope well with poor soil, cold or exposed sites, and even salt-laden coastal winds.
Is Erica easy to grow?
Generally known as heaths and heathers, ericas are colourful, evergreen, hardy and easy to grow. So it’s not surprising they’re such long-standing garden favourites, used in borders, containers, rock gardens, bee-friendly plantings and winter bedding displays. One of the main reasons for a dying heather plant is poor soil. Heathers prefer acidic soils with good drainage. Your struggling plant will thrive again, just make sure it is getting the nutrients it requires. If the soil is suitable, heathers can be adapted to survive and thrive long.In smaller gardens, heathers can also be planted in individual varieties, best chosen so the colours contrast or compliment each other. They are also great for lining paths, growing as ground cover plants or using in containers, and will last for up to 25 years.Where to plant. You can plant heathers in containers or open ground, in free-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A sunny position is best and will result in more vibrant foliage colours. Heathers will also grow successfully in light shade, such as under high-canopied deciduous trees.Plant a selection of heathers and you can have bee-friendly blooms in every season. These compact evergreen shrubs are great in gardens large or small, as well as containers, and offer a wide choice of foliage and flower colours – some are even scented.Usually Heathers need water one to two times per week. Aim to give the plants about one inch of water per week. Plants need water more often during a drought. New plants need water as soon as the soil dries out, but they do not like to be overwatered.