Aarons Beard, also known as St. John’s Wort, is a versatile and attractive herbaceous perennial shrub. With its bright yellow flowers and hardy nature, Aarons Beard is a great addition to any outdoor garden. Growing this plant is relatively easy as long as you follow some basic care guidelines. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about successfully growing Aarons Beard outdoors.
Choosing the Right Location
When growing Aarons Beard, the first step is selecting an optimal outdoor location. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade. A spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is ideal. Dappled shade underneath taller trees is also suitable.
In terms of soil, Aarons Beard prefers slightly acidic, fertile, and well-draining soil However, it is adaptable to most soil types including clay, sandy, loam, and even poor soils. Just make sure the soil drains properly to prevent soggy roots
Planting Aarons Beard
Aarons Beard can be planted outdoors in either spring or fall Spring is the best time to plant in colder climates after the last frost date has passed. In warmer regions, early fall planting is suitable
Starting from seeds – Sow Aarons Beard seeds directly in the ground outside. Plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep in prepared soil. Gently water and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate in 1-2 months.
Transplanting seedlings – For faster growing, use young nursery-grown seedlings. Dig a hole slightly wider and deeper than the root ball. Carefully place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil. Water thoroughly after transplanting.
Spacing – Space Aarons Beard plants 12-18 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and prevent overcrowding.
Care and Maintenance
Once established, Aarons Beard requires minimal care and maintenance to thrive. Here are some tips:
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Watering – Water plants regularly, especially during dry periods to keep the soil evenly moist but not saturated. Avoid watering foliage.
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Fertilizing – Using a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during spring and summer encourages growth. Discontinue fertilizing by late summer.
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Pruning – Prune back dead, damaged, or overgrown stems in early spring to improve shape and airflow.
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Weeding – Pull or mulch around plants to prevent weed competition, especially when young.
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Winter care – In cold zones, insulate plants by mounding soil or mulch around the base for winter protection.
Pests and Diseases
Aarons Beard is relatively resistant to most pests and diseases. However, potential problems include:
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Powdery mildew
- Root rot from overwatering
Monitor plants frequently and treat any infestations immediately with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or appropriate fungicides. Avoid excessive moisture and improve airflow to prevent disease.
Flowering and Propagation
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Aarons Beard flowers in late spring or early summer with bright yellow blooms. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooming.
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Propagate by seed, cuttings, or division in early spring or fall. Taking 3-4 inch stem cuttings or dividing mature plants is easiest.
Harvesting
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Harvest Aarons Beard leaves and flowers for medicinal use throughout the growing season.
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For optimal potency in herbal remedies, cut flowers when fully open and leaves as needed. Dry promptly in a warm, dark place.
Overwintering Tips
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In cold climates, insulate the plant for winter by mounding compost or mulch around the base.
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Potted plants can be overwintered indoors near a sunny window until spring. Limit watering and do not fertilize during dormancy.
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In mild zones, Aarons Beard may remain evergreen through winter with little protection needed. Trim off any frost damage in spring.
Common Concerns
Yellowing leaves – This can indicate too much moisture or insufficient drainage. Allow soil to dry between waterings.
Leggy growth – Improve sunlight and prune back overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth habit.
Failure to flower – Flowering decreases in too much shade or overfertilization. Provide ample sunlight and reduce fertilizer.
Pest damage – Watch for aphids, mites, and mildew. Treat with horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps. Improve air circulation.
With its rugged nature and bright yellow blooms, Aarons Beard is an easy-care addition to outdoor gardens. By selecting an appropriate site, planting properly, providing routine care, and protecting from pests, you can successfully grow this versatile plant. Follow these tips for an abundant and long-lasting Aarons Beard plant that can be enjoyed for years to come.
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Hypericum Growing Guide (St. John’s Wort) by GardenersHQ
FAQ
How do you care for Aaron’s beard plant?
Is Aaron’s beard invasive?
Is Aaron’s Beard the same as St John’s Wort?
Is St. John’s Wort a good ground cover?
How do you grow Aaron’s Beard?
Try to place them in an area where your plant is protected from cold, drying winds. Aaron’s beard performs best in well-drained soil, but it will also tolerate light, medium and heavy soils such as sandy, loamy or clay soil types. It performs well in acid, neutral, and basic soils and can grow in very alkaline soils too.
Is Aaron’s Beard a perennial?
The perennial plant is great as ground cover and can reach 24 inches in height. Let’s look at Aaron’s Beard plant care. Hypericum calycinum is known as the Rose of Sharon and hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9. Dark green oval leaves give way to an abundance of bright yellow flowers that bloom from summer to fall.
Can Aaron’s beard grow under trees?
The plant can adapt to heavy shade while under trees and is vigorous enough to overtake neighboring plants. The best use for Aaron’s Beard is massed and to cover the ground, in edges or slopes, embankments, and border fronts or rock gardens. The more light it gets the faster it grows and the more blooms the semi-evergreen shrub produces.
How do you care for Aaron’s Beard?
You can check the moisture of the soil by digging a trowel or your finger in the soil. If the first 2-4 inches are dry, you can start watering your plant. In the case of Aaron’s beard, the best watering tool to use is a soaker hose, so you can reduce water loss, while still being able to water your plant deeply.