How to Grow Rock Soapwort

How to Grow Rock Soapwort

Perennial, Saponaria

Rock soapwort is an easy-to-grow perennial that forms a carpet of spreading color. It produces a profusion of five-petaled pink flowers in varying shades, usually beginning in the second year.

Low-growing plants reach up to 1½ feet tall. Rock soapwort excels in rock gardens, on hillsides, or as ground cover for hard-to-maintain areas. It's nearly maintenance-free and grows well in containers and hanging baskets.

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Plant Propagation

Rock soapwort is easily grown from division. Dig out a section, separate into pieces, and replant elsewhere or share with friends.

It can also be grown from seed. Direct-sow into your rock garden or start indoors for transplanting. Sow seeds early in the season and cover very lightly with soil, or broadcast and rake lightly. Water lightly after seeding.

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How to Grow Rock Soapwort Plants

Rock soapwort prefers light, well-draining soil. If you have heavy clay, mix in ample sand before planting. Plants prefer full sun to partial shade.

Once established, they grow for years with almost no maintenance. They withstand dry periods—water once or twice weekly during droughts. Apply a general-purpose fertilizer every month or two.

Plants bloom in early summer. Cut back after the first bloom for a second flush.

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Insect and Disease

Rock soapworts seldom have insect or disease problems. If issues occur, treat early with organic or chemical insect repellents and fungicide.

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