Solomon's Seal Polygonatum × hybridum 'Betberg'

Water

Solomon's Seal requires consistent moisture, especially during its growing season in spring and early summer. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1-2 gallons per plant, depending on the size and the weather conditions. Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging. During hot, dry spells, it may be necessary to water twice a week, while in cooler, wetter conditions, reduce watering accordingly. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering.

Light

Solomon's Seal thrives in dappled sunlight or partial shade. It should be positioned in a spot where it can be protected from the harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch its leaves. The ideal location is under the canopy of deciduous trees or on the north or east side of a building, where it will receive bright, indirect light.

Temperature

Solomon's Seal prefers moderate temperature conditions and is hardy in a range generally between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 0 degrees Fahrenheit in winter. The plant is quite resilient to cold and can get through winter with mulch to insulate the root zone if conditions get colder.

Pruning

Solomon's Seal does not typically require extensive pruning. However, removing spent flower stems once blooming has finished can tidy the plant and encourage next year's growth. The best time for pruning is in late fall or early winter after the foliage has died back. Pruning in this period helps to prevent any potential disease from overwintering on dead plant material.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Solomon's Seal prefers a fertile, well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter. A good soil mixture for Polygonatum × hybridum 'Betberg' would be equal parts garden loam, compost, and leaf mold or peat moss. Aim for a soil pH of about 5.5 to 7 for optimal growth.

Repotting

Solomon's Seal does not need frequent repotting and can typically be repotted every 3 to 5 years. Polygonatum × hybridum 'Betberg' should be repotted when it becomes root-bound or when the soil quality deteriorates.

Humidity & Misting

Solomon's Seal thrives best in moderate to high humidity levels, though it can adapt to average room humidity. Aim for a relative humidity around 40-60% for ideal growing conditions for Polygonatum × hybridum 'Betberg'.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in well-lit area, avoid direct sun, water regularly.

• Outdoor

  Part shade, moist soil, protect from afternoon sun.

• Hardiness zone

  3-8 USDA

Life cycle

Polygonatum × hybridum 'Betberg', commonly known as Solomon's Seal, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in moist soil, typically in spring, emerging as small shoots. As temperatures warm, these shoots develop into arching stems with alternate leaves, and the plant undergoes vegetative growth. By late spring to early summer, small, bell-shaped, white flowers with green tips appear, hanging in pairs or clusters underneath the leaves. After pollination, typically by bees, these flowers develop into small, berry-like fruits that can be blue or black when ripe, providing food for wildlife and facilitating seed dispersal. In autumn, the plant's foliage turns yellow and begins to die back, with the plant entering a period of dormancy over winter. Solomon's Seal resumes growth from its rhizomes each spring, repeating the cycle, and can also spread vegetatively by these rhizomes forming colonies over time.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• The most popular method for propagating Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum × hybridum 'Betberg') is by division of its rhizomes. This is typically done in the fall after the foliage has died back or in early spring before new growth begins. To propagate by division, carefully dig around the plant to lift the rhizome from the soil. Using a sharp knife, cut the rhizome into sections ensuring each section has at least one growth bud. Replant the divisions immediately at the same soil depth from which they were taken, about an inch (2.54 centimeters) below the soil surface, and water them thoroughly. Spacing the divisions about a foot (30.48 centimeters) apart will give them room to grow. This simple method of vegetative propagation helps to maintain the specific characteristics of the 'Betberg' cultivar.