In the wild, Sweet Williams are world travelers, popping up everywhere from the Pyrenees and the Balkans all the way to Russia and China. But even though they’re pretty adaptable, these charming flowers definitely have a “happy place.” If you want to see a massive explosion of blooms, you’ll want to give them exactly what they’re looking for.
The Sunnier, the Better
When you’re ready to get your Sweet Williams in the ground or start them from seed, pick the sunniest spot in your garden. While a lot of plants like to stay tucked away from the breeze, Sweet Williams actually love good air circulation. A wide-open flower bed away from the heavy shade of big trees or thick bushes is the perfect spot for them to thrive.
Rich, Nutrient-Dense Soil
It takes a lot of energy to produce those gorgeous clusters of flowers, so these plants need a “high-calorie” diet. They do best in nutrient-rich soil, and unlike many other garden favorites, they actually prefer soil with a bit of lime in it. If your soil is a little on the thin side, a bit of all-purpose fertilizer in the spring can help. Just don’t go overboard! If you over-fertilize, the plant will put all its energy into growing leaves and stems, and you might end up with no flowers at all.
Well-Draining Ground
Good drainage is just as important as good nutrients. Sweet Williams hate “wet feet”—if the soil stays soggy for too long, they likely won’t bloom. Ideally, you’re looking for a loamy, sandy soil mix.
Pro tip: If you’re growing these to use as cut flowers rather than just garden decor, try planting them in straight rows to encourage them to grow nice and tall. The best time to cut them for a vase is early in the morning, right after the dew has dried off.
To recap, if you want your Sweet Williams to be the stars of the show, keep these three things in mind:
- Full sun
- Nutrient-rich soil
- Well-draining ground
