gaura

Gaura lindheimeri 'Crimson Butterflies' should be watered generously but infrequently. During warmer months, water the plant at least once a week. In cooler months, watering may not be necessary as the plant is dormant. Water deeply so that the roots can absorb all the nutrients. To ensure optimal water intake, the soil should be moist but not soggy. Check the soil every other day to make sure it doesn't dry out quickly. If needed, add more water to the soil.

Gaura lindheimeri 'Crimson Butterflies' thrives in full sun, ideally for 6 - 8 hours a day. When the weather is hot with direct sunlight, it can handle between 4 - 6 hours of the day before it needs partial shade. In extreme sun, providing a bit of shade in the afternoon to protect the plant from sunburn and wilting. When grown in shade, it tends to produce smaller, less vigorous blooms.

Gaura lindheimeri 'Crimson Butterflies' should be pruned approximately twice a year - once in the spring and once in the late summer. In the spring, prune off any dead or old growth to promote new growth. In the late summer months, cut back the spent flowers to encourage another flush of blooms. Additionally, you can lightly shear back the plants if they become straggly or remove any leggy branches. To prevent the plant from becoming too lanky, you can prune off 1-third of its growth each year, right after blooming. This will encourage more compact growth.