August's plant of the month: buddleia
August’s star shrub — from just £9.99
Why we love it:
- Attracts butterflies and bees with nectar-rich blooms
- Easy to prune and shape for repeat flowering
- Adds height, texture, and fragrance to any garden
Buddleia care tips
Enjoy a garden full of summer colour and pollinator visits with these easy care pointers:
Position: Choose a sunny spot with good air circulation. Buddleia thrives best in full sun.
Soil: Plant in well-drained soil. If your garden leans clay-heavy, improve drainage by incorporating grit or organic matter.
Watering: Water thoroughly when planting. Once established, Buddleia is drought tolerant and only needs occasional watering during extended dry spells.
Pruning: Cut back hard in early spring to promote vigorous growth and larger flower spikes. Don’t hesitate—this shrub responds well to a bold prune.
Deadheading: Remove faded flower spikes regularly to encourage fresh blooms and limit unwanted self-seeding.
Feeding: Use a high-potash fertiliser in spring to support flowering potential and overall plant health.
Containers: Dwarf varieties are well-suited to pots. Use a loam-based compost and repot every few years to maintain vigour.
