Rose Mallow Silver Cup

Soil Preparation 

 Soil type:

• Well draining, sandy loam.
• Tolerates poor soil but thrives in enriched soil. 

 pH:

• Slightly alkaline to neutral (6.5–7.5). 

 Preparation:

• Mix in compost or aged manure.
• Avoid waterlogged areas. 

Sowing Seeds 

 Direct sowing:

• Preferred due to taproot sensitivity. 

   Depth:

• 5–10 mm. 

   Spacing:

• 30–50 cm apart. 

 Germination:

• 7–14 days at 18–22°C.
• Keep soil moist. 

Sunlight & Watering 

 Sunlight:

• Full sun (6-4 hours daily). 

 Watering:

• Moderate. Water weekly; increase in heat.
• Drought tolerant once established.
• Mulch to retain moisture. 

Fertilising 

• Use a balanced, low phosphorus fertilizer at planting.
• Avoid excess nitrogen. 

Pruning & Maintenance 

• Deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering. 
• Self seeding: Allow some flowers to seed for next season. 

Pests & Diseases 

 Common pests:

• Aphids, snails, slugs.
• Use neem oil or beer traps. 

 Diseases:

• Prevent powdery mildew with good airflow.
• Treat with sulphur spray if needed. 

Harvesting Seeds 

• Collect dried seed pods.
• Store in a cool, dry place. 

Companion Planting Guide 

Best Companions 

Pollinator Magnets:

• Echinacea, Salvia, Sunflowers: Attract bees and butterflies, enhancing pollination. 
• Kangaroo Paw: Native, drought tolerant, and complements Lavatera’s height. 

Pest Repelling Plants:

• Marigolds: Deter nematodes and aphids. 
• Nasturtiums: Trap crop for aphids. 
• Lavender/Rosemary: Repel pests with aromatic foliage. 

Vegetable Garden Allies:

• Tomatoes, Cucumbers: Lavatera attracts pollinators for fruiting crops. 
• Beans: Fix nitrogen in soil, benefiting Lavatera. 

Aesthetic Pairings:

• Ornamental Grasses: Contrast texture. 
• Dianthus: Low growing, colourful border plants. 

Avoid Planting With:

• Water loving plants (e.g., Lettuce, Ferns): Lavatera prefers drier conditions. 
• Tall, dense plants (e.g., Corn): May shade Lavatera. 

Design Tips 

• Use as a backdrop in cottage gardens or mixed borders. 
• Pair with silver foliaged plants for contrast.