Alpine Bistort

Western Bistort can be watered once a week, using about 1 liter of water per plant. During the growing season, from late spring to early fall, the plant will need more water. You should aim for 2 liters per plant, every 5-7 days. During winter, when growth is slower, you can water less often, approximately every 10-14 days and about 1 liter of water per plant. To ensure that the plant is getting enough water, make sure the soil is moist at least 1-2 inches beneath the surface. Water sparingly - too much water can lead to rotting roots.

Western Bistort (Bistorta bistortoides) is a drought tolerant, sun loving plant that thrives in full sun and at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. It will also tolerate partial shade, but needs some direct sunlight to bloom and stay healthy. It should be grown in a spot where it can receive morning sunlight and protection from the hot afternoon sun. During the summer months, Western Bistort should receive generous amounts of sunlight, but it should not be exposed to too much heat during the summer by providing adequate ventilation around the plant.

When pruning Western Bistort (Bistortoides bistortoides), it should be done when the plant is in bloom, typically in late spring or early summer. Prune lightly with sharp pruning shears, taking care to not damage the crown of the plant. Pruning should remove old, woody, and diseased stems and should be done so that about 1 third of the foliage is removed. Doing this will keep the plant healthy and encourage new, more vigorous growth in the next season.