Spacing Your Blue Star Plant:
The Key to a Beautiful and Healthy Garden

Blue Star plants, also known as Amsonia tabernaemontana or Willow Blue Star, are a popular choice for gardeners due to their stunning blue flowers and low maintenance needs. However, many people often overlook the importance of proper spacing when planting these perennials. Spacing is crucial for the health and beauty of your Blue Star plants, as it allows for optimal growth and prevents overcrowding. In this article, we’ll explore why spacing is important and how to properly space your Blue Star plants.

Why is spacing important?

Spacing is vital for the overall health and appearance of your Blue Star plants. If plants are spaced too closely together, they will compete for resources such as water, nutrients, and sunlight. This can lead to stunted growth, reduced flowering, and increased susceptibility to diseases and pests.

On the other hand, if plants are spaced too far apart, the garden may look sparse and unattractive. Additionally, wider spaces may result in more weeds sprouting up around the Blue Star plants.

How to properly space your Blue Star plants

When planting Blue Star plants, it’s important to consider both the plant’s mature size and the amount of space available in your garden. A general rule of thumb is to space Blue Star plants 18-24 inches apart.

However, some factors may affect the spacing requirements of your particular Blue Star plant. For example, if you have a smaller variety of Blue Star plant, such as ‘Blue Ice’, you may be able to space them closer together. Conversely, if you have a larger variety such as ‘Storm Cloud’, you may need to space them further apart.

In addition to considering the plant’s size, it’s important to also consider the overall design of your garden. If you’re planting Blue Star plants in a border or along a walkway, you may want to space them closer together for a fuller effect. If you’re planting them in a larger area or as part of a mixed border with other plants, you may want to space them further apart.

Once you’ve determined the appropriate spacing for your Blue Star plants, it’s time to start planting. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of your plant and place the plant in the hole at the same depth as it was in its original container. Backfill with soil and water thoroughly.

Additional tips for healthy Blue Star plants

Proper spacing is just one factor in ensuring healthy and beautiful Blue Star plants. Here are some additional tips:

• Sunlight: Blue Star plants prefer full sun but can tolerate some shade. Make sure they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Watering: Water your Blue Star plants deeply once a week during dry periods.
• Soil: Blue Star plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They can tolerate a range of soil types but do not do well in wet or poorly draining soil.
• Fertilizer: Blue Star plants do not require heavy fertilization but can benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring.
• Pruning: Prune back your Blue Star plants by about one-third after they have finished blooming in late spring or early summer. This will encourage bushier growth and more blooms next year.

By following these tips and properly spacing your Blue Star plants, you can enjoy their stunning blue blooms and foliage year after year.

FAQ

Q: Can I plant my Blue Star plant close to other perennials?

A: Yes! Blue Star plants can be planted with other perennials as long as they are spaced properly. Keep in mind that some perennials may have different watering or fertilization needs than Blue Star plants.

Q: How often should I divide my Blue Star plant?

A: It’s best to divide your Blue Star plant every three to four years in early spring before new growth begins. This will help prevent overcrowding and ensure healthy growth.

Q: Can I grow Blue Star plants in containers?

A: Yes! Blue Star plants can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and has proper drainage. Make sure to water regularly and fertilize lightly every spring.

Q: Do deer like to eat Blue Star plants?

A: No! One benefit of growing Blue Star plants is that they are deer-resistant. However, they may still be susceptible to damage from other pests such as slugs or aphids.