Growing Lady's Mantle in a pot

Lady's mantle is genuinely low-maintenance once established. Its water needs are moderate; in most temperate gardens, rainfall will suffice except during prolonged dry spells in summer. If the leaves start to wilt or look dull, water deeply at the base rather than sprinkling lightly. Plants in full sun or free-draining soil may need watering every week or so in hot, dry weather, while those in partial shade or heavier clay will manage with much less. Feed once a year in March with a general-purpose granular fertiliser such as blood, fish and bone or Growmore, scattered around the base of the clump and lightly worked into the soil surface. A handful per plant is plenty. Alternatively, a 3–5 cm mulch of garden compost in early spring feeds the soil and helps retain moisture through summer. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds, which promote soft, lush growth at the expense of flowers. Lady's mantle is fully hardy to zone 3a, so overwintering in temperate Europe is never a problem. The foliage may remain semi-evergreen in mild winters, but it often dies back partially or looks shabby by late winter. Simply tidy away any browned leaves in early spring before new growth emerges. Pests and diseases rarely trouble this plant. Occasionally aphids cluster on young flower stems in May, but they seldom cause lasting harm; a strong jet of water usually shifts them. In very wet seasons or poorly drained spots, slugs may nibble emerging leaves in spring, though the hairy, slightly bitter foliage isn't their favourite. Otherwise, lady's mantle is remarkably trouble-free and will thrive for years with minimal intervention.