Arenaria Montana RHS Seeds

Arenaria Montana RHS Seeds - Irish Plants Direct

 

Arenaria montana, commonly known as Mountain Sandwort, is a charming, low-growing perennial that brings a fresh, natural beauty to rock gardens, alpine beds, and container displays. With its delicate, star-shaped white flowers and soft, grey-green foliage, Arenaria montana creates a tranquil, ground-covering effect that works well in both sunny and partially shaded areas.

 

The name Arenaria is derived from the Latin word arena, meaning "sand," as this plant is often found in sandy, rocky habitats in the wild.

 

This hardy and compact plant grows to a height of 10 - 15 cm and spreads to form dense mats of foliage. It thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil and is particularly suited for areas that experience dry conditions.

 

Its small but plentiful white flowers bloom in late spring to early summer, attracting bees and butterflies to your garden.

 

Recognised by the Royal Horticultural Society with the Award of Garden Merit (AGM) for its reliable garden performance, Arenaria montana is also part of the prestigious RHS Seed Scheme, ensuring that you receive premium quality seeds for successful growth.

 

Seed Qty: Approx. 100

 

Sow: March - May (indoors) or April - May (outdoors)

Germination: 14 - 21 days

Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil; neutral to slightly alkaline pH

Height: 10 - 15 cm

Flowering: May - June

Companion Plants: Thymus, Sedum, Heuchera

Avoid Planting With: Invasive plants or those that prefer moist conditions

 

Arenaria montana is very low-maintenance once established. It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once it is established. Deadheading spent flowers can prolong the blooming period, and it can tolerate dry, poor soils, making it perfect for rockeries or xeriscaping.

 

Sowing Instructions

 

Indoors: Sow seeds in trays or pots filled with moist, well-drained compost from March to April. Lightly cover with a fine layer of compost and keep at a temperature of 15-18°C. Transplant seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle and harden off before planting outdoors after the last frost.

 

Outdoors: Sow directly into prepared, weed-free soil from April to May. Lightly cover the seeds with soil and keep moist until germination occurs. Thin seedlings to the recommended spacing to allow for healthy growth.

 

With its compact habit, delicate flowers, and ease of care, Arenaria montana is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to alpine gardens, rockeries, or even hanging baskets. Its hardiness and low-maintenance nature make it a great addition to any garden looking for a unique, long-lasting ground cover.

 

RHS Seed Scheme Range