How to Grow Germander
Teucrium chamaedrys
Wall germander is a tough Mediterranean evergreen subshrub, perfect for low hedging and knot garden edging. It tolerates poor, dry soils and full sun, producing spikes of purple-pink flowers in summer. Clip after flowering for a neat shape. Extremely drought-tolerant once established and virtually pest-free.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Germander rarely needs feeding. A light top-dressing of general fertiliser in spring is sufficient on very poor soils.
Watch For
- Powdery mildew in humid conditions
- Root rot in waterlogged soil
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun
Thrives in hot, sunny positions. Needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. Tolerates reflected heat from walls and paving.
Watering
Extremely drought-tolerant
Once established, rarely needs watering. Overwatering and poor drainage are the main causes of failure. Prefers dry conditions.
Fertilizing
Rarely needed
Germander thrives in poor soils and seldom needs feeding. A light general fertiliser in spring only on very poor soils.
Pruning
Clip after flowering for shape
Clip lightly after flowering in late summer to maintain compact shape. For formal hedging, trim twice per year in spring and after flowering. Avoid cutting into old wood.
