How to Grow Soapwort

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By Melissa Howard
eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (5 Ratings)

Soapwort blossoms

The hardy perennial soapwort is worth a gardener’s serious consideration for planting in yard or garden. Soapwort is a traditional herb with a long history, which makes it a suitable addition to any herb or vegetable gardener’s planting beds. In the spring, the low-growing plant is covered with blossoms ranging from white to crimson depending on the variety that you plant, making it a delightful ground cover along the edge of a flowerbed. Soapwort is very easy to grow and can withstand poor conditions and neglect which makes it a great choice for the sandy spot in the yard or the spot that never gets watered.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Soapwort seeds or root divisions
Rake
Trowel
Watering can or hose

To Start By Seed

Step 1

Loosen the soil with the rake.
Step 2

Broadcast the soapwort seeds by hand or plant them where you want them.
Step 3

Cover lightly with soil.
Step 4

Water lightly.

To Start From Root Divisions

Step 1

Dig up existing plant and break off small sections of the plant to use for new plants, or break off a section of the creeping runners (you will find these have roots on them).
Step 2

Dig a hole for the new plant.
Step 3

Add a natural slow-release fertilizer such as aged manure or coffee grounds to the hole.
Step 4

Settle the divisions in their new location.
Step 5

Water regularly until the plant seems established.

Tips & Warnings

Soapwort is a hardy perennial (perennial means it comes up every year from the same rootstock) and can survive in temperatures as low as -30º to -40ºF (USDA Hardiness Zone 3).
Cut plants back after initial bloom to stimulate a second blooming period a month or 2 later.
Soapwort prefers a sunny location with fertile well-drained soil. However, because the plant can be invasive, some herbalists recommend planting in a less ideal location to restrain its aggressive behavior.
Soapwort contains a substance called saponin. The saponin in the roots of the plant can be dangerous to fish so do not plant soapwort near fishponds.

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