Wormwood has long been known to mankind for its enchanting aroma and intoxicating effect, which was actively used by shepherds. for the production of some drinks, such as vermouth or absinthe, however, decorative wormwood, which not only smells nice, but also has an unusual appearance, has gained wide popularity. That is why it has become popular among landscape design lovers.
- Description of wormwood
- Species of wormwood
- Reproduction of garden wormwood
- Use of garden wormwood
Features of the decorative garden wormwood
Description of wormwood
This plant is very unpretentious, it can grow in almost any conditions.
Wormwood is a shrub perennial species, reaching from 20 to 150 cm in height, depending on the variety. However, annual and biennial plants and herbs are found, as well as shrub species.
The stem is straight, the leaves have the shape of a feather on which a whitish bloom is observed. Due to this, there is a feeling that the plant glows with silvery colors.
Types of wormwood
Wormwood can be classified into several types:
- Wormwood . Often, this wild plant is found in the fields and along the roads. Due to the unusual smell and bitter taste, it began to be used for the manufacture of alcoholic beverages. In addition, bitter wormwood has medicinal properties that are actively used in folk medicine;
- Tarragon. This herb has found its application in cooking, as a seasoning for meat dishes or pickles;
- The medicinal product has a delicate lemon flavor, it is known as a natural remedy against moths;
- Decorative wormwood or another name for garden . There are low or tall varieties.Blooming wormwood has white or light yellow inflorescences that emit a strong sweetish aroma.
Reproduction of garden wormwood
The plant does not like excess moisture
The appearance of decorative wormwood has gained particular popularity among gardeners because of its unpretentiousness. It can be planted in direct sunlight or in places characterized by high freezing of the soil.
It is important that there is no high humidity at the planting site, because wormwood, like any other plant, due to excess moisture can overtake the roots. This shrub is resistant to drought, therefore does not need frequent and plentiful watering.
Reproduction of garden wormwood can be done in various ways:
- by seeds;
- dividing the bush;
- cuttings;
- part of the rhizome.
To properly propagate the bush, you need to plant the separated part in the soil, previously fertilized with compost. The division using cuttings is done at the end of May. To do this, choose strong, healthy shoots with a length of 7 to 10 cm. Initially, they are planted in boxes with loose soil, in which wormwood will take root throughout the year. After that, it can be transplanted into the open ground.
Early spring is most suitable for propagation using seeds. In early April, they are planted in greenhouses.When young plants reach 10-15 cm, they are dived into separate pots of 1-3 pieces each.
Use of garden wormwood
Due to the variety of shades of leaves from blue-green to bluish-silver, decorative wormwood is actively used to decorate the garden plot. It is also used in decorating border paths or bouquets.
Low-growing varieties are suitable for planting near paths or on alpine hills. For a variety of flower beds, tall varieties are used. Sometimes gardeners plant wormwood between the currant bushes. This method prevents rust from appearing on its leaves.
From spring to late autumn, the shrub retains the brightness of colors and color saturation, which allows you to combine it with any plants.This is an excellent decoration for the flowerbed, which easily tolerates cutting of branches, which allows you to give the plant any shape , depending on the wishes of the designer.
If you dilute the wormwood with other aromas herbs, such as thyme, lavender or sage, you can create a unique fragrant flower garden.
However, do not forget that due to the spread of the long roots of decorative wormwood, it is able to move around the garden. remains in one place for 2 years, after which it begins to let out small processes. Therefore, it is best used in compositions that do not have clear boundaries.
