Caring for Bee Blossom

Gaura is a low-maintenance perennial once established, requiring little intervention beyond the annual March prune. Watering needs are minimal; the plant is drought-tolerant and actually prefers dry conditions. Water newly planted gaura regularly during the first growing season to help roots establish, then reduce watering significantly. In subsequent years, water only during prolonged dry spells in summer—overwatering encourages lank growth and increases the risk of root rot. Feeding is not necessary and can be counterproductive. Gaura grows naturally in poor, rocky soils and responds to rich feeding by producing excessive foliage at the expense of flowers. Avoid applying fertiliser; if your soil is very poor, a single light dressing of general-purpose granular feed in early spring is the absolute maximum, but most gardeners find it thrives without any feeding at all. Overwintering is straightforward in zones 7–9, though gaura can be slightly tender in the coldest winters. Leave the old stems standing until March to protect the crown, and apply a 5 cm layer of grit or gravel mulch around the base in late autumn to improve drainage and prevent winter wet, which is more damaging than cold. In zone 6 or exposed gardens, consider covering the crown with a cloche or fleece during severe frost. Gaura is generally pest-free, but powdery mildew can appear on foliage in late summer, especially in humid conditions or where air circulation is poor. This is largely cosmetic and rarely affects flowering. Avoid overhead watering and ensure adequate spacing. Aphids occasionally cluster on new shoots in spring; a strong jet of water or insecticidal soap will control them if necessary.