hyssop

Hyssop should be watered infrequently, but deeply, once every 2-3 weeks. When watering, it is important to soak the soil, and to avoid getting water on the crown of the plant, which can cause root rot. During summer, soak the soil to a depth of 8–12 in (20–30 cm) if you can, then allow the soil to slowly dry out before watering again. In winter, reduce the frequency of watering even further, allowing it to dry out almost completely before giving it another soak. For potted plants, avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as these are more vulnerable to dehydration than plants grown in the ground.

Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) should be grown in a sunny location for best growth and flowering. Full sun is recommended for optimum flowering and foliage growth. However, it can tolerate partial shade. Hyssop should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day in order to thrive. In the summer, the plant should receive full sun from mid-morning until late afternoon, and in winter, the sun should be full from late morning until early afternoon. Too much direct sunlight during the hot summer months can cause the plant to suffer from heat stress and become sunburned.

Hyssop should be pruned twice a year: once in early spring just before new growth and once in late autumn about 6 weeks before the first frost. Spring pruning helps stimulate new growth and maintain the desired size and shape of a hedge or topiary. Pruning in the autumn reduces winter temperatures and encourages more dense growth for the following spring. To prune, remove any weak, dead or damaged stems and thin out any overcrowded or overly dense branches to improve air circulation. In addition, trim off the tips of all stems to create a stronger, denser, more compact bush. Pruning to this extent should only be done once a year and should leave the tips of the stems approximately 3 to 4 inches above ground.