When to Plant Heather?

When to Plant Heather? The Ultimate Guide for Beginners

Heather is a beautiful addition to any garden, with its atmospheric purple hues, cheerful flowers, and hardy nature. But... when is the best time to plant heather? And what should you pay attention to when planting this unique plant species? In this guide, we'll explain everything about the best timing and approach for planting heather, both in the ground and in a greenhouse or container.

What exactly is heath?

Before we begin: what do we actually mean by "heath"? We're usually referring to heather ( Calluna vulgaris ) or bell heather ( Erica ). These plants naturally thrive in acidic soil and love sunlight. They stay green in winter and bloom for a long time during late summer and autumn – ideal for those who want a touch of color in their garden all year round.

Heather plants are very popular in ornamental gardens, but are also frequently used as ground cover or in rock gardens. They also attract butterflies and bees, so you're also helping biodiversity!

When to plant heather in the open ground?

The ideal time for planting

It's best to plant heather in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to early November). During these periods, temperatures are relatively stable—not too hot and not too cold—and in our Belgian climate, there's usually plenty of rain. A cloudy or slightly rainy day is ideal: the plants dry out less quickly and the soil is easier to work.

Avoid planting heather during freezing weather or on extremely hot summer days. Spring allows you to take full advantage of its natural growth cycle, while autumn benefits from moist soil and mild temperatures. Want to discover more plants suitable for this period? Then also browse our collection of perennials that you can plant at the same time.

How do you plant heather in open ground?

Heather prefers acidic, well-drained soil. Avoid heavy clay or chalky soil. Dig a planting hole twice as wide as the root ball, mix in some peat (or potting soil specifically for acid-loving plants), and plant the plant slightly below ground level.

Make sure the root ball is well-pressed and water immediately, even if you're planting on a rainy day. After planting, you can apply a layer of mulch to prevent the soil from drying out and prevent weeds.

When to plant heather in a greenhouse or pot?

Heather in a greenhouse or on a sheltered balcony

Don't have a full garden but still want to enjoy heather? Good news: you can also grow this plant perfectly in pots or a conservatory. Heather will definitely thrive in brush-sized varieties or mixed planters. In a conservatory, it's best to use clay or terracotta pots, which distribute heat well while also ensuring airiness for the roots.

Here too, it's best to plant in spring or autumn. In a greenhouse, you have a little more flexibility regarding timing, as the temperature protects against frost. Always ensure adequate ventilation and avoid water that remains on the leaves to prevent mold.

What potting soil do you use for heather?

Always use a potting soil with a low pH that is slightly acidic. You'll find a wide selection of suitable mixes in our potting soil and accessories collection. Add some perlite for better drainage, if desired. And don't forget to place some hydro grains at the bottom of the pot for good drainage.

Additional tips for successful planting

1. Mix and match with other plants

Heather combines perfectly with other acid-loving plants like rhododendrons or various types of calathea . Low-growing succulents or ferns also look lovely alongside them. Stuck for inspiration? Our outdoor plant collection is sure to give you some ideas!

2. Be careful with lime-rich tap water

Heather absolutely hates lime. So, preferably give your plants rainwater or filtered water. Lime in the soil or irrigation water can hinder nutrient absorption. Do you have any questions? Feel free to visit our store or send us a message via the contact page .

3. Pruning to keep the plant compact

After flowering, you can prune heather lightly to keep the plant nice and compact. Remove only the spent blooms and leave plenty of green on the branches. Note: never prune all the way back to the old wood, as it won't regrow from there.

What other friends can you plant in the same period?

Are you working on your garden plans and want to plant some flowers or vegetables during the same period? Consider perennials like anemones or asters . Prefer something edible? Then check out our tips on when to plant potatoes or when to plant leeks .

Planting heather? Time to get started!

In short: plant your heather in spring or autumn, choose a cloudy or rainy day, use acidic soil, and water thoroughly. Whether you have a small garden, conservatory, or balcony, these attractive plants bring color, texture, and life to any outdoor space.

Still looking for matching plants for your heather planting? Discover our wide selection of houseplants and outdoor plants , or choose a fun plant gift card right away. Good luck with your heather adventure!