Alissum stormy waves

Alyssum maritime, or masons (Alyssum maritimum). Most of them grow wildly in the Mediterranean countries, often in dry, stony places, which is why the name "masons" is associated.

A compact plant up to 10 cm high. The bush of the alissum is densely branched with oblong matte green leaves. The flowers are collected in a racemose inflorescence. The color of the petals is white or purple. They produce a strong honey aroma that is constantly felt.

It blooms from July to September, plentifully. Seeds do not ripen immediately and can crumble. Therefore, it is better to collect them several times. Seed germination lasts up to 3 years.

The plant is unpretentious to the soil, cold-resistant, photophilous. It easily tolerates drought, but does not tolerate waterlogging.

Agricultural cultivation is simple. Seeds are sown early in the spring right into the balcony drawers. The soil requires light, nutritious with a small content of lime. It is recommended to sow shallowly (0.5 cm) and soil to be slightly compacted. Seeds germinate on the 5-6th day. Thinning required. The distance between plants after thinning is 10-15 cm. It blooms 30-40 days after seed emergence. When propagated by seedlings, seeds are sown in nests at the end of April. Prepared seedlings are planted in balcony boxes at the end of May with a distance between plants of 15 cm. To bloom more abundantly, cut side shoots.

When growing on balconies, the plant takes an ampel shape, so it should be placed along the outer edge of the box.

Recommended for south-facing balconies.