Growing Non-GMO Iberis Empress Flower Seeds

For the earliest blooming, start Empress iberis seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the final frost and transplant once there are two sets of true leaves. Empress seeds will germinate within 14-21 days with full lighting. If transplanting outside, harden off seedlings into a sunny spot in the garden or a bright place indoors. Seeds can also be sown directly in the fall in warmer winters for early spring color. Plant 2-3 Empress iberis seeds 0.25 inch deep in average, medium moist, and well-drained soil in full sun. Candytuft is drought-tolerant, but is susceptible to water-related issues if not properly ventilated. Empress iberis will thrive with shade and deadheading to prolong vigor into the long summer months. Candytuft back by 1/3 after blooming to prevent legginess and encourage plenty of flowers. Water regularly (weekly or more, depending on the weather) while the plants are getting established. Once iberis has some deep roots, it can usually persist without supplemental watering except during a drought. In zone 8, this plant can tolerate some partial shade; otherwise, it is a full-sun plant. This is an annual version of iberis and will die in the frost. In frost-free areas, it can persist perennially. Fertilization is not required for this plant to thrive, but it can encourage plentiful blooms. If desired, use a slow-release option with lower nitrogen and higher phosphorus (the first number should be lower, and the second should be higher). Follow the package directions. Candytuft is drought-tolerant; however, avoid overhead watering to minimize wetting foliage.

Iberis Empress in the Flower Garden

These Empress Iberis flowers are deer-resistant and pollinator-friendly! Candytuft is a great ground cover, providing beautiful blooms while also shielding the bare earth between other plants from weeds.

Landscape Use of Iberis Empress

Empress Iberis is a beautiful ground cover; to encourage them to fill in quickly, plant them 8-12 inches apart. Because it requires little water once established, it can also be a wonderful addition to xeriscapes aimed at reducing a landscape's watering needs.

About Iberis Empress Garden Seeds

Iberis is also known as Rocket Candytuft, Wild Candytuft, Bitter Candytuft, Hyacinth Candytuft, and Annual Candytuft in fresh-cut or potted arrangements, as a short filler flower to help larger blooms pop!

This variety of iberis is not toxic like some others. However, it is not commonly eaten either. In the past, Iberis amara was considered edible, but now its extremely bitter taste is a bit too heavy for the modern palate and is no longer considered edible.<

Iberis amara, commonly known as Rocket Candytuft or Annual Candytuft, is native to Southern Europe and thrives as a perennial in the warmer Mediterranean winters, similar to thyme. The genus iberis derives its name from the Iberian Peninsula in Southern Europe (Spain and Portugal), where it grows naturally. /p>

Stories From Our Gardeners

"Iberis or Candytuft" in the landscape reminds me of a perfect cross between alyssum and lobelia! The papery white blooms on the delicate foliage with a sprawling habit are idyllic for flower beds and potted arrangements."

- Lara Wadsworth" True Leaf Market Writer

Iberis Empress Seeds Per Package:

• 1 g - Packet - Approximately 350 Seeds
• 1 oz - Approximately 10,000 Seeds
• 4 oz - Approximately 40,000 Seeds

Non-GMO Iberis Empress seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.