Knautia macedonica 'Red Knight'

Knautia macedonica 'Red Knight' Care Guide

Introduction:

Knautia macedonica 'Red Knight', commonly known as Red Knight Scabious, is a striking perennial plant valued for its deep red, pincushion-like flowers and long blooming period. This cultivar of Knautia is renowned for its easy care and ability to attract pollinators, making it a popular choice for garden borders, cottage gardens, and wildlife-friendly landscapes. 'Red Knight' adds a burst of color and charm to any garden setting, providing interest from late spring through summer. Here's a comprehensive care guide to help you cultivate and enjoy the beauty of Knautia macedonica 'Red Knight' in your garden.

1. Growing Conditions:

• Sunlight: Plant 'Red Knight' Knautia in a location with full sun to partial shade. It thrives in bright sunlight but can tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates.
• Soil: Choose well-draining soil with moderate fertility. Knautia prefers loamy or sandy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the plant's establishment period. Once established, 'Red Knight' is moderately drought tolerant and can withstand short periods of dryness.
• Temperature: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9. It tolerates a wide range of temperatures but may require protection from extreme heat in hotter regions.

2. Planting and Spacing:

• Planting Time: Plant 'Red Knight' Knautia in spring after the last frost date or in early autumn. Avoid planting during the hottest part of summer.
• Spacing: Space Knautia plants about 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for their spread. Plant them in groups or clusters for a more impactful display.

3. Care and Maintenance:

• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or compost, around the base of the plants to conserve moisture, suppress weed growth, and maintain a consistent soil temperature.
• Watering: Water 'Red Knight' Knautia regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases, and water at the base of the plants to keep the foliage dry.
• Fertilizing: Knautia generally does not require fertilization if grown in fertile soil. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer sparingly in spring if necessary.
• Deadheading: Remove spent flower heads regularly to encourage continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding. This will also help maintain the plant's tidy appearance.
• Division: Divide mature clumps of Knautia every few years in early spring or autumn to rejuvenate the plants and prevent overcrowding.

4. Flowering:

• 'Red Knight' Knautia produces numerous small, deep red flowers on slender stems from late spring to summer. The flowers attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, enhancing biodiversity in the garden.
• Enjoy the colorful display of flowers, and deadhead spent blooms to promote continuous flowering.

5. Pest and Disease Management:

• Knautia macedonica 'Red Knight' is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, watch out for issues such as aphids, slugs, and powdery mildew.
• Inspect the plants regularly for signs of pest infestation or disease, and address any problems promptly using appropriate control measures.

By following these care guidelines, you can cultivate healthy and vibrant Knautia macedonica 'Red Knight' plants that will provide years of color and beauty in your garden. Whether planted in borders, cottage gardens, or wildlife-friendly landscapes, 'Red Knight' will enchant you with its stunning flowers and easygoing nature

• Size
  2L

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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