FLOWER-ALYSSUM WHITE (SWEET ALICE)(SALE)

How to grow Alyssum White (Sweet Alice)

1. Choose the Right Location in full sun to partial shade for best flowering.
   Ensure well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
2. Planting Alyssum directly into the soil after the last frost.
   Lightly cover seeds with 1-2 mm (1/16 inch) of soil.
   Space plants 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) apart for proper airflow.
   Ideal soil temperature for germination: 18-21°C (65-70°F).
   Seeds germinate in 5-15 days.
3. Water regularly but avoid overwatering; Alyssum is drought-tolerant once established.
   Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming from spring to fall.
   Lightly trim plants mid-season to encourage bushier growth.
4. Choose well-drained soil with moderate fertility and light.
   Use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4-6 weeks for optimal growth.
5. Temperature to plant ranges between 10-30°C (50-85°F).
   Tolerates mild frost but prefers warm conditions.
   Perennial in certain area, but usually grown as an annual in cooler climates.
6. Companion plant with roses, petunias, marigolds, and vegetables like tomatoes.
   Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
7. Common problems are Powdery mildew? Improve airflow and avoid overhead watering.
   Leggy growth? Trim back to encourage compact, bushy growth.
   Pests like aphids? Use insecticidal soap or encourage natural predators like ladybugs.

Additional growing tips to grow Alyssum White (Sweet Alice)

• Pre-Soak the Seeds for Faster Germination
  Alyssum seeds have a tough outer coating, and pre-soaking can speed up germination:
  Soak seeds for 6–8 hours in warm water before planting.
  This helps break dormancy, leading to quicker sprouting.
• Ice Cube Method for Summer Sowing
  If planting in hot climates, Alyssum seeds may struggle to germinate.
  Try placing ice cubes over the sown area—the slow melting cools the soil and mimics natural moisture conditions, improving germination.
• Use Coffee Grounds for Compact Growth
  Alyssum can sometimes become too leggy, especially in nutrient-poor soil.
  Adding used coffee grounds to the soil provides slow-release nitrogen, keeping plants shorter and bushier.
• Companion Plant with Carrots & Lettuce for Natural Pest Control
  Alyssum attracts hoverflies, whose larvae eat aphids.
  Growing Alyssum near carrots, lettuce, or cabbage reduces aphid infestations naturally.
• Pinching Trick for Continuous Blooms
  Instead of just deadheading, pinch back the tips of young Alyssum plants when they reach 4 inches (10 cm) tall.
  This encourages side branching, leading to a fuller, more flower-covered plant.
• Water in the Morning for Fragrance Boost
  Alyssum flowers release the strongest scent in humid conditions.
  Water in the morning, and the slight moisture in the air will enhance the sweet honey-like fragrance.
• Allow Self-Seeding for an Effortless Display
  Alyssum readily self-seeds, meaning you don’t have to replant every year.
  Let some flowers go to seed at the end of the season, and next spring, new plants will appear naturally!
• Mulch with Straw or Peat Moss to Keep Roots Cool
  Alyssum prefers cool soil, and in hot climates, it may struggle in summer.
  Add a thin layer of straw or peat moss around the base to keep roots cool and reduce watering needs.
• Use Fish Emulsion for a Bloom Explosion
  A weak fish emulsion fertilizer (diluted at ¼ strength) applied every 2 weeks will boost flower production.
  Perfect for potted Alyssum that needs extra nutrients!
• Grow in Hanging Baskets for a Cascading Effect
  Alyssum isn’t just a ground cover! Try planting it in hanging baskets—it spills over beautifully, creating a waterfall of flowers.
  Works especially well when mixed with trailing petunias or lobelia.
• Snow-Inspired Winter Sowing
  In cold climates, you can winter sow Alyssum by planting seeds in Winter
  The seeds stay dormant until the weather warms, then sprout at the perfect time in spring.

Heritage of Alyssum White (Sweet Alice)

White Alyssum, a variety of Lobularia maritima, has a long history as a beloved ornamental and medicinal plant.
Originating from the Mediterranean Basin, including parts of Southern Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, it was first classified in the 18th century by botanists who noted its ability to thrive in coastal areas (hence ‘maritima’ in its name).

The name “Alyssum” comes from the Greek word “a-lysson”, meaning “without madness.”
In ancient Greece, it was believed to have calming and medicinal properties, particularly for treating bites from rabid animals.

Early herbalists used Alyssum for respiratory ailments and wound healing.
By the 19th century, White Alyssum became a garden favorite in Victorian England due to its delicate fragrance and symbolic meaning of beauty and sweetness.
It was often used in cottage gardens and formal flower borders, sometimes called “carpet of snow” for its ability to form dense, white floral mats.

Over time, Alyssum spread worldwide as both a decorative and pollinator-friendly plant.
Today, White Alyssum is a staple in wildflower meadows, container gardens, and companion planting, valued for its hardiness and self-seeding nature.

Fun Fact:
Sailors and explorers once carried Alyssum seeds with them because it was believed to bring good luck and protection!

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