Guide to growing Speedwell - Veronica

Plants belonging to the Veronica genus are hardy perennials that range from 10cm to 1.2M in height.

They bloom from summer to the start of autumn when they carry spikes of small purple, blue or white flowers.

Some of the common names for Veronica include Speedwell, Culver's root and Blackroot.

Speedwell is long been known to have medicinal purposes and has been used in the treatment of coughs, skin eruptions and to treat slow healing wounds in the past.

How to grow Veronica

If growing Speedwell outdoors from seed then sow on the surface either at the start of autumn or the start of spring. The speedwell plants should be located in a sunny part of the garden that has good drainage and a soil that is not rich and of pH 5.5 to 7. the spacing that you plant Veronica is dependent upon the species; grow small veronica plants at 15 to 30cm apart, and larger veronica varieties from 30 to 45cm apart.

If you plan to first grow speedwell and other veronica indoors then start the process about 10 weeks in advance. Veronica seeds take from two weeks to three months to germinate at a temperature of 15 to 20 degrees centigrade. Transplant in autumn or before the last frost of spring.

Caring for Veronica

Veronica plants require the occasional feed. Taller varieties should be staked. Water Veronica regularly during dry spells. It is important to deadhead old flowers to prolong blooming. If you require more plants then propagate Veronica by taking cuttings in the summer; or by division of the plant in the autumn.