Caring for Coral bells 'Lime Marmalade'

Heuchera 'Lime Marmalade' has moderate water needs. Water regularly during dry spells in spring and summer, especially in the first year, but avoid overwatering—heucheras prefer soil that is moist but never sodden. In autumn and winter, natural rainfall is usually sufficient; good drainage becomes even more important as wet, cold soil can cause crown rot. Feed in April and May with a balanced general-purpose fertiliser such as blood, fish and bone or a slow-release granular feed scattered around the base of the plant. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds, which promote soft, lush growth at the expense of the foliage colour and can make the plant more prone to slug damage. A light spring feed is all that's needed; heucheras are not heavy feeders. This cultivar is fully hardy in zones 4–9 and requires no special winter protection in temperate Europe. Its evergreen foliage provides year-round interest, though leaves may look tired by late winter. A mulch of leaf mould or compost applied in autumn helps insulate the roots and suppresses weeds, but keep it away from the crown. The main pest to watch for is vine weevil. Adult beetles notch the leaf edges, but it's the larvae that do real damage by eating the roots. If plants suddenly wilt or collapse, tip them out and check for fat, creamy-white grubs. Treat with a biological control (nematodes) in spring or autumn. Slugs and snails may also nibble young foliage in damp weather; use organic pellets or barriers if necessary. Powdery mildew can appear in dry summers on congested plants—thin out old leaves and improve air circulation.