Fatal Liaison Duo

Astrantia major Star Ruby grows in ordinary, moist and uncompacted soil, in sunny, partially shaded or even shady locations in warm climates. It requires little maintenance. Cut back the unsightly foliage before winter and remove faded flowers to encourage new flowering. It self-seeds very easily. Its only known pests are slugs and snails.

This perennial should be planted in spring or autumn, at a rate of 5 plants/m2. To plant your young plant, work the soil to a depth of 20cm (8in), crumbling the soil and adding a base amendment such as bonemeal at the bottom of the planting hole. Position your plant, removing it from its pot, and covering the top of the root ball with 3cm (1in) of soil, backfill and water thoroughly to eliminate air pockets. During dry weather, water regularly for a few weeks to facilitate root growth. During wet weather, keep slugs away, as they are a threat to young plantings. How? By using wood ash or by making traps with beer.

Plant your English Rose Desdemona in a sunny or lightly shaded location. English roses are tolerant but do not like excessive limestone. They will adapt to any garden as long as the soil is well-worked and sufficiently rich. To plant your rose, work the soil, crumbling it well, and add an amendment, such as bonemeal, at the bottom of the planting hole. Water thoroughly after planting to eliminate air pockets. Water regularly for a few weeks to facilitate root growth. Pruning English roses is essential for flowering.