Iberis

Iberis should be watered regularly in its first year of life. Provide the plant with enough water to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy. In winter the plant can go without water, or be given very little. Once it is established, and has had a chance to develop a deep root system, it is fairly drought tolerant. When mature, the plant is quite drought tolerant and can survive dry spells if necessary.

Iberis prefers full to partial sun – six to nine hours of bright sunlight per day is ideal. This will help to ensure the plant develops a nice dense and attractive growth habit and produces the fragrant white flower clusters. If grown in a pot, the container should be placed in the sunniest position possible. In too much shade the plant will become too leggy, growing too tall in an attempt to reach the sun.

Iberis is hardy to USDA Zones 4-9 and survives snow and temperatures down to -30 Fahrenheit (-34 Celsius). In USDA Zones 4-7 Iberis benefits from winter protection, especially for young plants. Plastic row covering material can help to insulate young plants during cold winter nights. Your candytuft will thrive in a range of temperatures, from 45-80 Fahrenheit (7-26 Celsius).

Iberis is tolerant of a range of humidities, from dry to moist. In general, dry conditions provide the best climate and humidity for candytuft. Too much humidity can cause the foliage to become leggy and can lead to fungal diseases. Spotty and yellowing of the leaves is an indication of excessive humidity.

Iberis prefers a well-draining and slightly alkaline soil, with a pH of 5.5 – 7.5. It grows well in loam, sandy, and clay soils, and can thrive in rocky soils with limestone. An enriched soil with a good organic content will provide the best growing conditions for your candytuft.

Iberis likes a balanced fertilizer with an equal amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. You can fertilize your candytuft every month in spring and summer, using a water-soluble or slow-release fertilizer. For best results, water thoroughly before and after fertilizing to ensure the soil is adequately moist.

Generally, Iberis is quite resistant to pests and diseases, but there are a few common ones to be aware of. Common pests that can cause damage to Iberis include aphids, scale, thrips, whiteflies and cabbage loopers. If pests do become an issue, a wide range of solutions are available. For example, you can treat with a neem oil spray, which is an effective and natural reaction. If this does not work, seek advice from your local gardening center or consult a professional pest control operator.

Iberis should be repotted whenever it becomes rootbound in a pot. This usually occurs every two to three years for young plants and, once established, it will require less frequent repotting. If planting in the garden, you can simply divide the clump every three to five years to encourage new growth and to help with blooming. Be sure the soil is well-draining.

Iberis responds well to pruning and will continue to bloom after regular pruning throughout the spring and summer months. When pruning, make sure to remove twiggy or deadwood to help maintain a nice shape and form for your candytuft. You can also selectively remove flowering stems as they die back to encourage fresh blooms throughout the year.

Mulching can help to protect the surface roots during cold weather. It can also help to control weeds and conserve moisture. An organic bark mulch or shredded leaves can provide the best protection and looks attractive.

Iberis can be propagated by seed, by dividing established plants, or through cutting. Seed should be sown indoors in spring, just after the flowers have finished blooming. If propagating by division, dig up a clump of established plants in late summer or early autumn and divide into smaller, manageable clumps. To propagate through cutting, take softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings in late spring or summer and place in moist potting mix to encourage rooting.

Iberis doesn't need any form of support, unless planted in an exposed location where extra support can help to keep the plant looking tidy. If a support is required, use a stake or a trellis.

Iberis does not need a rest period, but it's best to plant in the spring so that it has the whole summer to establish and put out roots. During the winter the plant should be given as little water as possible, as it goes dormant throughout this period.

Although Iberis is generally not toxic to people or pets, it can cause mild stomach upset if consumed in large amounts.