Originally hailing from the rugged mountain ranges of Central and East Asia, Bergenias (often called “Pig Squeak” by us gardeners!) are some of the toughest, most low-maintenance plants you can add to your landscape. Because they’re used to harsh conditions, they aren’t picky at all about where you put them, making them a fantastic “fill-in” plant for almost any spot in your yard.
Sun or Shade? You Choose!
One of the best things about Bergenias is that they really aren’t fussy about sunlight. Whether you have a bright, sunny border or a tucked-away corner in full or partial shade, these plants will be perfectly happy. This flexibility makes them a total lifesaver when you’re trying to design a garden with tricky lighting.
Give Them Plenty of Nutrients
While they’re easygoing about light, Bergenias do have a bit of an appetite when it comes to soil quality. Since certain varieties put on a show twice a year—blooming in both the spring and the fall—they need plenty of fuel. You’ll want to make sure your soil is rich in nutrients. If your dirt is looking a little tired, try mixing in some well-aged compost to give it a boost. I also recommend a little extra feeding in the fall; a bit of compost or a standard garden fertilizer will help them stay strong and healthy all through the winter.
Keep Things Well-Drained
When it comes to water, Bergenias are pretty self-sufficient. Usually, they’ll do just fine with whatever rain Mother Nature provides, and you’ll only need to grab the watering can during those extra-dry summer stretches. However, the one thing they absolutely hate is “wet feet.” To avoid root rot, make sure your soil drains well. If your ground is a bit heavy or clay-like, mixing in some sand can really help create that perfect, airy consistency they love.
To sum it up, if you want your Bergenias to thrive, just keep these three things in mind:
- They’re happy in sun, shade, or anything in between.
- They love nutrient-rich soil.
- Good drainage is key to keeping them happy.
