Aubrieta, a low-growing perennial, thrives in containers like pots, hanging baskets, and window boxes. Its dense, mat-forming habit and profusion of small, four-petaled flowers in shades of purple, pink, and white provide color from mid-spring to early summer. Growing aubrieta in pots allows gardeners to enjoy its beauty even in limited spaces.
Choosing the Right Pot and Soil
Choose an appropriate container for potted aubrieta. The pot must have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which aubrieta dislikes. A suitable mid-sized pot provides enough space for root development. Terracotta pots are preferred for their breathability, helping the soil dry more evenly, while plastic pots retain moisture longer.
Well-draining soil is important for aubrieta. This plant prefers slightly alkaline to neutral soil. A standard all-purpose potting mix can be used, but it benefits from amendments. Incorporating perlite, grit, or coarse sand enhances drainage.
Planting Aubrieta in Pots
Prepare the chosen container, ensuring drainage holes are clear. Partially fill the pot with potting mix, leaving space for the plant’s root ball. Gently remove the aubrieta from its nursery container. Place the plant in the pot so its top is at the same level as in its original container. Fill the remaining space with potting mix, lightly patting it around the plant. Avoid burying the foliage too deeply. After planting, water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot.
Ongoing Care for Potted Aubrieta
Aubrieta thrives in full sun. For best flowering, position potted aubrieta where it receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. While it tolerates partial shade, too much shade leads to leggy growth and fewer blooms. In hot climates, afternoon shade can prevent scorching.
Consistent moisture is beneficial, especially for potted aubrieta, but overwatering should be avoided. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Checking soil moisture by hand before watering ensures the plant receives water only when needed. During dry periods, regular watering may be necessary to maintain moderate soil moisture.
Aubrieta is not a heavy feeder and thrives in lean soil. If desired, a light application of a balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer in early spring or after flowering can promote growth and blooming. Alternatively, a diluted liquid feed (half strength) can be applied during the growing season. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and deadheading maintain appearance and encourage blooms. Deadhead spent flowers to extend the flowering period. After the main bloom period, typically in late spring or early summer, prune the plant by about one-third to one-half of its growth. This helps maintain a compact shape, prevents legginess, and can encourage a second flush of flowers.
Winterizing Potted Aubrieta
Potted aubrieta needs winter protection, as containers offer less insulation compared to ground planting. Although generally hardy to -15°C, heavy freezes in pots can damage roots. Move pots to a sheltered location, such as an unheated garage, cold frame, or a protected spot against a building.
To provide insulation, pots can be wrapped with materials like burlap, bubble wrap, or old blankets. Grouping several pots together also offers mutual protection, creating a microclimate that helps shield roots from extreme cold. During winter, reduce watering frequency considerably, but ensure the soil does not completely dry out. Check the soil periodically and provide a light watering during prolonged dry spells when temperatures are above freezing.