Milkwort 'Lillet' Polygala calcarea 'Lillet'

Water

The Chalk Milkwort should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Typically, this means watering the plant with about 1 gallon of water every week during the active growing season, depending on the climate and the size of the plant. During the winter months or in cooler climates, reduce watering to every other week or when the soil feels dry to the touch. It's important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

Light

Chalk Milkwort thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions. It should be placed in a spot where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, but can be protected during the hottest part of the afternoon if necessary. An east or west-facing location with bright, indirect light can also be suitable for encouraging flowering.

Temperature

Chalk Milkwort prefers moderate temperatures and can handle a range between 50°F and 75°F. It can survive minimum temperatures of about 40°F, but should be protected from frost. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 60°F and 70°F.

Pruning

Prune the Chalk Milkwort to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Light pruning can be done in early spring or after the plant has finished flowering. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and trim back up to one-third of the plant's size to promote fresh growth. Pruning is typically needed once a year.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Chalk Milkwort requires a well-draining soil mix with a pH of 7.0-7.5. A suitable blend can be made with equal parts of garden soil, coarse sand, and peat, ensuring good aeration and drainage for the roots.

Repotting

Chalk Milkwort does not need frequent repotting; it should be done every 2-3 years or when the plant has outgrown its container, to provide fresh nutrients and encourage growth.

Humidity & Misting

Chalk Milkwort prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable. It does not require any specific humidity adjustments when grown in typical household conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, minimal water, and well-draining soil.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade, use well-draining alkaline soil.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

The life of the Chalk Milkwort (Polygala calcarea 'Lillet') begins with seed germination, which typically occurs in spring when temperatures are suitable for growth. After sprouting, the seedling stage involves the development of roots and the first few leaves, allowing the plant to undergo photosynthesis and grow. Following this, the vegetative stage is characterized by the growth of stems, leaves, and root systems, as the plant matures and becomes more robust. The reproductive stage is marked by the production of vibrant flowers, usually from late spring to early summer, enabling pollination by insects. Once pollinated, the plant sets seeds that mature by late summer, completing its reproductive cycle. The plant then enters dormancy during the colder months, reducing its metabolic activity to survive winter, and re-emerges in the following spring to repeat the cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: Polygala calcarea 'Lillet', commonly known as the Chalk Milkwort, is often propagated from seed. The best time to sow seeds is in the spring after the last frost when the soil has warmed up. To propagate by seed, one must first sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, covering them lightly with soil as they need light to germinate. It's important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination can be slow and irregular, sometimes taking several weeks to a few months. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be carefully transplanted into individual pots and grown on until they are ready to be planted out in their permanent positions.