Alyssum Planting Tips

Sweet alyssum (Lobularia maritima) is an annual or biennial from the Brassicaceae family. This low-growing plant's delicate flowers bloom from late spring through late summer. Alyssum's fragrant white, lavender or pink flowers brighten up the garden, and the woody plant will spread quickly throughout the growing season.

Sun and Soil

Alyssum requires full sun for the best bloom. While it will tolerate some shade, it will not produce as many flowers if its planting area doesn't receive at least six hours of sunlight each day. Alyssum is not very picky about its soil. Any lightly-enriched soil will do, ranging from clay to sandy.

Zones

Alyssum grows well as a perennial in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9. In other climates, it's treated as an annual. Purchase new plants each year or simply let your plants go to seed.

Water

Do not overwater alyssum. Water newly-planted alyssums every other day for the first week until they are established. After that, water only when the soil is very dry. Too much water will cause alyssum roots to rot.