How to Grow Gypsophila

Gypsophila, also known as baby's breath, is used in flower arrangements. The light, airy masses of small white or pink flowers make a good contrast to larger flowers in the garden.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Bypass Pruners
• Compost Makers
• Fertilizers
• Hand Cultivators
• Mulch
• Plants
• Seeds

Choosing Gypsophila

1. Look for plants at nurseries in spring and summer, or seed packets all year round.

2. Buy gypsophila in 4-inch containers, or buy seeds.

3. Choose healthy-looking plants with signs of new growth in leaves and flower buds.

Planting Gypsophila

1. Plant gypsophila in full sun in well-drained soil.

2. Add a light application of organic fertilizer to the planting hole.

3. Place the plants no deeper than the depth of the containers they were growing in.

4. Set the plants 18 inches apart.

5. Mulch around but not on top of the plants with 3 inches of organic compost.

6. Water well until soil is completely moist.

7. Plant seeds in the garden in late spring; keep the area moist until the seeds have germinated.

Caring for Gypsophila

1. Cut off any remaining stems from the previous year in early spring using bypass pruners.

2. Apply a light application of organic fertilizer on top of the soil; follow package directions.

3. Mulch around but not on top of the plants with 3 inches of organic compost.

4. Water well weekly until soil is completely moist in summers with no rainfall.