Complete Guide to Growing Lady's Mantle (Alchemilla)

Overview

Old-fashioned perennial herb for shade gardens. Tiny chartreuse flowers for fresh/dried arrangements. Hairy leaves/stems catch morning dew for a magical look. Once medicinal; now used in cosmetics and crafts.

Step-by-Step Cultivation

Step 1: Choose the Right Site

Cool north: full sun to partial shade. Hot south: partial shade or midday shelter. Rich, fertile, evenly moist soil—no drought tolerance.

Step 2: Amend Soil

Add 2–4 inches peat moss and 2–4 inches compost. Turn and rake smooth.

Step 3: Sow Seeds

Less than ¼ inch deep, 2–3 inches apart. Firm soil, mist gently. Keep moist until germination (7–14 days).

Step 4: Thin Seedlings

At 2–3 inches tall, space 12–18 inches apart.

Step 5: Mulch

2–3 inches shredded leaves or partially decomposed compost.

Step 6: Water

Equivalent of 1–2 inches rainfall per week.

Step 7: Winter Protection

4-inch mulch layer in late fall. Remove early spring.

Step 8: Spring Top-Dress

Pull back mulch. Apply 2–3 inches well-rotted compost in 8–10 inch circle. Replace mulch.

Step 9: Divide Every 5–6 Years

Drive sharp spade through roots. Each division needs 1–2 growth stems. Replant 3 inches deep or discard.