All products were chosen independently by our editorial team. This review contains affiliate links and we may receive a commission for purchases made. Please read our affiliates FAQ page to find out more.

Wallflowers, with their vibrant colors and alluring fragrance, are a staple in many gardens. Belonging to the Erysimum genus, these charming flowers not only enhance the visual appeal of a garden but also contribute to its biodiversity. This guide, tailored for the avid gardener, delves into the intricacies of growing and caring for wallflowers, ensuring a blooming and healthy garden.

Key Takeaways

  • Ideal Growing Conditions: Wallflowers thrive in sunny spots with well-drained soil.
  • Planting Techniques: Optimal planting involves careful soil preparation and spacing.
  • Propagation Methods: Propagation can be done via cuttings or seeds for extended displays.
  • Care and Maintenance: Regular watering and pruning are key to vibrant blooms.
  • Choosing Varieties: A range of varieties are available, each with unique characteristics.

How to Grow Wallflowers


Wallflowers flourish in a range of climates, but they particularly thrive in temperate regions. To grow wallflowers successfully, consider the following factors:

Climate and Conditions

  • Sunlight: Wallflowers need full sun to partial shade. Choose a spot in your garden that receives ample sunlight for the best bloom production.
  • Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil is ideal. If you have heavy clay soil, consider amending it with grit or sand to improve drainage.

Planting and Initial Care

  • Planting Time: The best time to plant wallflowers is in early autumn, allowing them to establish over winter for spring blooming.
  • Spacing: Plant wallflowers about 15-30 cm apart to ensure adequate air circulation and room for growth.

Where to Grow Wallflowers

Wallflowers are versatile and can be grown in various locations, including:

  • Garden Beds: They make excellent border plants due to their height and vibrant colors.
  • Containers: Suitable for balconies or patios, provided they are placed in sunny spots.
  • Companion Planting: Wallflowers complement spring bulbs like tulips, creating a colorful display.

How to Plant Wallflowers

Planting wallflowers requires attention to detail to ensure a successful bloom:

  • Preparation: Start with loosening the soil and removing any weeds or debris.
  • Planting Depth: Plant the seeds or seedlings at the same depth they were in their previous environment.
  • Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting and keep the soil consistently moist.

Caring for Wallflowers

Regular care is crucial for healthy and vibrant wallflowers:

  • Watering: Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
  • Feeding: A balanced fertilizer during the growing season can promote healthier blooms.
  • Pruning: Regular deadheading encourages more flowers to form.

How to Propagate Wallflowers

Propagation of wallflowers can be achieved through seeds or cuttings:

  • Seeds: Sow seeds in late summer or early autumn for flowering the following year.
  • Cuttings: Take cuttings in summer from new growth and root them in a well-drained compost mix.

Propagation Table

Method Time Steps
Seeds Late Summer Sow in trays, cover lightly with soil
Cuttings Summer Cut 7-10 cm stems, remove lower leaves, plant in compost

Growing Wallflowers: Problem Solving

Growing wallflowers, like any gardening venture, may present challenges. Here’s how to address common issues:

Common Issues and Solutions

  • Pests and Diseases: Regularly inspect your wallflowers for signs of infestation or disease. Treat with appropriate organic or chemical solutions as needed.
  • Poor Blooming: Ensure adequate sunlight and avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to lush foliage at the expense of blooms.

Problem-Solving Table

Issue Cause Solution
Wilting Over/Under-watering Adjust watering schedule
Yellow Leaves Nutrient Deficiency Apply balanced fertilizer
Pest Infestation Aphids, Slugs Use organic insecticides or natural predators

Register for our latest in-depth reviews and product round-ups from the experts.

Enter your email address below to receive our monthly review emails.

By entering your details, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Varieties of Wallflowers to Grow

Wallflowers come in a range of varieties, each with unique characteristics:

Popular Varieties

  • Erysimum ‘Bowles’s Mauve’: A perennial favorite with purple blooms.
  • Erysimum ‘Cheiri’: Known for its vibrant biennial blooms in various colors.

Varieties Table

Variety Type Color Blooming Season
‘Bowles’s Mauve’ Perennial Purple March to July
‘Cheiri’ Biennial Various Spring

FAQs

Consider your climate, soil type, and the desired color scheme of your garden.

While they prefer full sun, they can tolerate partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.

Yes, they can thrive in containers if placed in a sunny spot and watered regularly.

Early autumn is ideal, allowing them to establish before winter.