How to plant angelicas
Angelicas are spectacular plants loved by pollinators producing large aromatic umbells, held on tall contrasting red stems. Fantastic planted at the back of the border, in woodland settings or near water, these architectural plants will bring colour, height and drama to the summer garden; try mixing with crocosmias, dahlias, heleniums, hemerocallises, kniphofias or ligularias. Their flowers can be used in fresh and dried flower bouquets.
Plant in moist, fertile soil in sun or partial shade. Angelicas may only produce leaves the first year but will make their presence known the following year.
Angelicas are supplied in 9 cm pots. Always unpack and plant on arrival.
Potential problems, pests and diseases:
- Aphids: these sap-eating insects can weaken plants and spread viruses. Whenever possible, pick off by hand using gloves.
- Leaf miners: the larvae feed by burrowing in the leaves, causing white to brown spots and squiggly lines and patterns to appear within the leaves. Cut off any infected material before disinfecting your scissors. Heavily attacked seedlings may die.
- Snails and slugs: these pests enjoy munching on young shoots, stems, leaves and flowers. Watch out for damage!
- Powdery mildews: these fungal diseases usually caused by planting in the shade or by poor air circulation can be seen in the form of white, powdery coating on the leaves. Cut off any infected material before disinfecting your scissors.
