Snow-in-Summer Cerastium tomentosum

Water

Snow-in-summer, commonly known as Cerastium tomentosum, prefers well-draining soil and should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. An established plant typically needs watering once every week or two, depending on local weather conditions. During the active growing season in spring and summer, water the plant with about one gallon of water per plant, ensuring that the moisture reaches deep into the root zone. Reduce frequency of watering during the fall and winter when the plant is dormant. Always avoid overwatering to prevent root rot, a common issue with this species.

Light

Snow-in-summer thrives in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sun per day. The ideal spot for this plant is in an area where it can bask in bright and unfiltered light throughout the day. However, it can endure light shade, especially in regions with extremely hot summers.

Temperature

Snow-in-summer can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it flourishes in conditions between 60 to 75°F. It is cold-hardy and can survive minimum temperatures down to around -30°F, making it suitable for USDA hardiness zones 3 through 7. For optimal growth, avoid exposing the plant to prolonged periods of heat above 80°F.

Pruning

Pruning snow-in-summer is important to maintain its compact, mounded shape and to encourage healthy growth. Pruning should be done after the plant has finished flowering, usually in late summer or early fall. Cut back the plant by about one-third to one-half of its size to promote new growth and prevent it from becoming leggy. Pruning annually or as needed will also help rejuvenate the plant and maintain its appearance.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Snow-in-summer (Cerastium tomentosum) thrives in well-draining soil with a mix of loam, sand, and compost. For the best growth, maintain a slightly alkaline pH of around 6.0 to 7.5. A recipe suitable for this plant might be 60% loam, 30% sand, and 10% compost to ensure proper drainage and fertility.

Repotting

Snow-in-summer does not typically require frequent repotting due to its spreading growth habit. This plant is often repotted or divided every 3 to 4 years to manage its size and rejuvenate the soil. Overcrowded clumps can be separated during repotting to encourage healthier growth.

Humidity & Misting

Snow-in-summer prefers a relatively dry climate and is tolerant of low humidity levels. It does not necessitate high humidity and is quite adaptable to typical outdoor conditions where the humidity fluctuates naturally.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Grow Snow-in-summer in bright light in sandy, well-draining soil.

• Outdoor

  Plant Snow-in-summer in full sun, well-draining soil, and space adequately.

• Hardiness zone

  3-7 USDA

Life cycle

Snow-in-summer (Cerastium tomentosum) starts its life cycle as a seed which, when sown in spring or autumn, germinates in moist, well-drained soil. Seedlings emerge and develop into a low-growing, mat-forming perennial with silvery-grey foliage, given proper sunlight and temperature conditions. As the plant matures, it spreads out to form a ground cover, and by late spring to early summer, it reaches its flowering stage, displaying small, white, star-shaped flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers develop into small seed capsules, which release seeds when they mature, completing the reproductive cycle. Throughout the growing season, the plant continues to spread vegetatively through its roots and stolons, expanding its coverage area. Snow-in-summer enters a period of dormancy in the winter, with its above-ground parts dying back, but it will regrow from its root system when favorable conditions return in the spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Snow-in-Summer, scientifically known as Cerastium tomentosum, is most commonly propagated by division or cuttings. The ideal time to propagate this plant is in the spring or early fall when the temperature is mild and there is less risk of heat stress on the new plants. To propagate Snow-in-Summer by division, carefully dig up an established clump and gently separate it into smaller clumps, ensuring that each has a good root system and several shoots. These can then be replanted at the same depth they were growing at originally, spaced about 12 inches (roughly 30 centimeters) apart to allow for growth and air circulation. Water the newly planted divisions well and maintain consistent moisture until they are established.