globe thistle

Globe thistle (Echinops bannaticus 'Blue Globe') should be watered every 5-7 days during the warmer months when the top 2-3 inches of soil begin to dry out. Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering cycles. During the colder months, reduce watering to once every 2 weeks. Over-watering should be avoided at all times, as globe thistle is prone to root-rot. Avoid getting the foliage wet to prevent fungal diseases.

Globe thistle (Echinops bannaticus 'Blue Globe') does best in full sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. Morning sun is ideal, as it helps to dry off the dew from the night before and provide the plant with the energy it needs to recharge its system for the day. Since these plants are from Mediterranean climates, they prefer direct sun all year round. In colder climates, 6 to 8 hours of full sun is plenty for globe thistle, but in hotter climates, you may want to look for some mid-day shade to protect the plant from the hottest sun.

Globe thistle should be pruned annually in early spring after any danger of frost has passed. Cut off all of the stems down to just a few inches above the root crown, removing any dead or damaged stems. This will promote healthy shoot regrowth during the season. Pruning can be done in the fall as well if you find the plant becomes unruly or if it begins to flower late in the season - this will help to control the size and shape of the plant. The reward of regular pruning of globe thistle is a lower, more compact and fuller plant with larger, brighter blooms.