Great Burnet Rock and Roll

Choosing the right location, which should be sunny to partially shaded, is key to successfully growing Burnet 'Rock and Roll'. This perennial, which you will receive from us as an already established seedling, naturally thrives in loamy and clayey soils that can better retain moisture. Therefore, avoid planting in purely sandy or rocky substrates where the plant would suffer from drought. If you have heavier soil in your garden, it is the ideal environment for burnet. Before planting, we recommend enriching the soil with mature compost, which will provide nutrients for the start. Keep to the recommended spacing of approximately 50 cm, which equates to 4 to 6 plants per square meter, so each clump has enough space for its strong and upright growth up to one meter in height.

During the growing season, especially in the hot summer months of July and August, ensure regular watering. Although burnet is undemanding and does not suffer from common diseases or pests, it has one weakness related to a lack of moisture. In overly dry and sandy soils, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew. Should an infection occur or if the plant does not look nice due to drought, do not despair. Simply cut the entire clump down to the ground. The plant has excellent regenerative ability and will soon resprout with new, fresh green, and healthy leaves. There is no need to overdo fertilizing; it is enough to work a little compost into the soil in the spring or use a universal perennial fertilizer.

Burnet 'Rock and Roll' is fully frost-hardy down to -34 °C (zone 4a), so it can handle our winter without any special protection or covering. In autumn, the leaves die back, and the plant overwinters in its roots. The main maintenance awaits you in early spring, when it is necessary to remove all old and dry above-ground parts just above the ground to make way for new shoots. Because it is a long-lived perennial, it will bring you joy in one place for many years without the need for frequent transplanting or dividing of the clumps.

Customers often ask about the possibility of growing it in containers. Yes, this cultivar can also be grown in a large pot or planter on the terrace, but it requires a bit more attention. The container must be large and deep enough so the root system does not overheat. Watering is crucial here – the substrate in the container must never completely dry out, otherwise the plant will quickly wilt and lose its beauty. For container growing, we recommend mixing garden potting soil with a clay component or water-retaining gel. Also, don't forget that the flowers are suitable for cutting and will last more than a week in a vase, while the young leaves are edible and can liven up summer salads.