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White mignonette

Reseda alba · Resedaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant white mignonette: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Foliage
Deciduous
Flowering
April to September
Mature size
16 to 32 inches in height
Growth
Fast
Hardiness
Hardy down to –15 °C
Origin
Mediterranean basin and North Africa
Soil type
Well-draining, preferably chalky

Care

Light exposure

White mignonette prefers a sunny location for generous flowering. It tolerates light partial shade but will flower less abundantly. Place it in a well-ventilated spot, as it dislikes stuffy conditions.

Soil and planting

This plant appreciates well-draining, chalky or slightly alkaline soils. Enrich the soil with organic matter when planting. Avoid compacted or overly moist terrain, which promotes root rot.

Watering

Water regularly but moderately, especially during growth and flowering periods. Let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. In winter, drastically reduce watering if the plant persists.

Fertilizing

A balanced fertilizer application in spring is usually sufficient. You can repeat every 4 to 6 weeks during flowering to promote flower production. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would reduce flowers in favor of foliage.

Pruning and maintenance

Pinch young plants to encourage branching and a compact form. Remove spent flowers regularly to extend flowering. At the end of the cycle, you can leave a few flowers to go to seed for natural resowing.

Diseases and pests

White mignonette is generally robust, but excess moisture can promote powdery mildew or root rot. Ensure good air circulation around the plant and maintain healthy watering practices. Watch occasionally for aphids, especially in spring.

Did you know?

White mignonette was once highly prized in Europe for its subtle and delicate fragrance, used in royal bouquets in the 17th and 18th centuries. Its French name 'mignonnette' means 'little darling,' evoking the grace of its fine white flowers. Unlike some more fragrant Reseda varieties, white mignonette has a lighter scent, which does nothing to diminish its charm.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.