how to look after your alpines

You have probably heard horror stories about growing alpines. But they are not as difficult to grow and maintain as everybody thinks. The reality is they are very hardy plants with the will to survive cold elevated winter temperatures.

There are a few things they really do not like however, and it can be hard to recreate such harsh conditions for them down at sea level and close to the equator. 

Because of their love for almost sand like soil, you will need a container that drains well. Alpines don’t mind the cold, but don’t like to be in cold wet soil. You must consider drainage as the main important feature. Make sure you have a container that has holes in the bottom and drains well. 

In addition to this these alpines do not like acidic soil. Most like slightly alkaline or neutral soil. So this is important to remember when you are picking out soil to use 

Where to find an alpine bistort?

Alpine containers

Really, a Belfast sink that has a big drainage or a trough that is shallow with as lot of drainage is the best thing for this because they optimise the drainage and also they look great especially Belfast sinks! You can even just place them in an area in your garden that gets a lot of rain for example under a leaky roof. Then you will never need to water them yourself!

Will alpine plants grow in clay soil

The answer is probably not. It kind of depends on which ones you choose but the majority like gritty normal soil that is quick draining.  This being said some of them can actually withstand clay soil. 

How to make an alpine garden

Wondering how to make alpine garden? Well with all the info I’ve just given you it should not be too difficult. You will need:

• A trough/ Belfast sink/fast draining container
• Grit
• Neutral soil
• Alpine bulbs

Get started! 

How to plant alpines in containers

Simply put some bigger size stones at the bottom, and also get some grit and mix that with your neutral soil. You can also invest in some slightly acidic soil. Do some research on the individual flowers you have to see what sort of soil they like.

Can you put alpines in hanging baskets?

You can actually put alpines in hanging baskets, they have great drainage, you just have to make sure you get the soil right and don’t forget to water them. They can be a great pop of colour in the spring and early summer so just try it out. People are sure to be interested in what you have growing because alpines are often under-appreciated.