Master the art of cultivating resilient mountain survivors in your own garden
In short: Alpines are remarkably tough plants, evolved to endure extreme winds, thin soil, and harsh sun. This video features Alex Hankey, the RHS Garden Wisley Alpine Team Leader, sharing expert techniques for maintaining a thriving, colorful alpine collection.
Originating high in the mountains above the treeline, alpines are adapted to rocky, dry conditions. While many are easy to care for once established, they require specific environments to thrive. They generally prefer sun and gritty, free-draining soil, and they dislike heavy or consistently damp soil, particularly during winter. If your garden has heavy clay, containers are an ideal alternative.
Building a successful alpine display involves creating a tapestry of textures and colors. Alex Hankey suggests using a variety of growth habits—from low ground-huggers and cushion plants to upright dwarf shrubs—to create visual appeal. For year-round interest, gardeners should combine evergreens with deciduous varieties and select plants that flower in different seasons to ensure a continuous display of gem-like blooms.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: How to grow and care for Alpines | RHS Gardening Masterclass: Alpines Pt.3 | The RHS
- Also: How to grow alpines / RHS Growing Guide
- Also: www.rhs.org.uk — RHS advice & tips on garden & indoor plants | Plant finder & selector / RHS
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