Hi from Southeast Michigan! I've read a few of the posts and agree that collecting huechs is like eating potato chips! But, fortunately, no calories.
I'm just getting the hang of starting new plants, but I'm always in a quandary about watering established ones. I find it's easier to control the moisture of the soil in medium to large pots, and the mixture of soil I use (for containers) is approximately what Dan Heims recommended in his book (Heucheras and Heucherellas). I lost a few to overwatering (in the garden) - Sweet Tea and Key Lime Pie, most recently. I replaced both of them, and now I use a slim bamboo rod to to test the soil before watering.
Sometimes they start to visibly droop - that's how leery I am of over-watering! But the right soil mixture makes a definite difference. I noticed someone posted a pic of a thriving Ginger Ale. I've lost two of those - although one I had in a pot with Lime Rickey for about four years and love it's neutral coloring. Lime Rickey is still going, although tiring out, and Ginger Ale died. So I got two replacements of GA.
Since they aren't heavy feeders, I use slow-release fertilizer or alfalfa meal mixed in the soil for a boost. But I'm becoming a little more careful in choosing which cultivars to buy. Some, I've noticed, are definitely more vigorous than others.Usually I give a cultivar 2 chances...and after that, I won't buy it again (and I have the time to give the 'fussier' ones more attention.). I wish they all were as vigorous as the landscape dependables like Stormy Seas, Marmalade, etc.
Has anyone grown Earth Angel? It's one of the most vigorous - except maybe for Palace Purple - heuchs I've ever grown. And it has bright pink flowers in addition to its lovely foliage. I found mine at a discount store maybe 5 years ago and am not sure if it was labeled correctly. But it grows in shade or full sun (with a little more water) and is quick to multiply.
Enough of my rambling. Promise to rein in my enthusiasm next time!
Linda
