The snow in the summer plant, also known as Cerastium tomentosum, is a low-growing perennial that produces a stunning carpet of white blooms in late spring and early summer when most other plants are just starting to wake up With its woolly, silvery-grey foliage and abundant flowers, it truly resembles freshly fallen snow during the warmer months
Overview of Snow in the Summer
Snow in the summer is an evergreen perennial that grows in mats and is related to the carnation family. This plant comes from Europe and usually grows in rock gardens and on rocky slopes. Four to eight inches tall, the plant is twelve to eighteen inches wide. It has grayish-green, oval-shaped leaves that are densely covered on both sides with woolly hairs that make them look soft and silvery.
In the summer, snow plants have beautiful flowers that cover them in white. The flowers start to bloom in late spring. The flowers are small, only about 1/4 inch across, and have five petals with deep grooves in them. They continue appearing sporadically through the summer. Once it’s established, this hardy perennial can flower profusely every year with very little work.
Ideal Growing Conditions
Snow in the summer thrives in full sun and poor, dry soils. It is considered drought tolerant once established and does not require much watering or rich soil to flower profusely. It can adapt to a wide range of conditions but prefers sharp drainage The optimal pH range is 60 to 8.0.
In USDA zones 3 through 10, this plant can handle the winter. It can handle temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter. The best places for summer snow are those with cool summers and cold winters. In places that are hot and humid in the summer, the leaves may not look healthy.
Uses in the Landscape
The low, spreading habit of snow in the summer makes it well suited as a ground cover. It can blanket areas between stepping stones or pavers to form a living carpet. The sea of white flowers contrasts beautifully against the foliage and surrounding elements.
Some popular ways to use snow in the summer in gardens and landscapes include:
- Planted in rock gardens, alpine gardens, or on slopes
- Used as a lawn substitute or low-maintenance ground cover
- Allowed to creep between stepping stones or pavers
- Grown in border edges, cottage gardens, or containers
- Planted along pathways, walkways, and driveways
Care and Maintenance
Snow in the summer requires very little care once established. It thrives on neglect and hardly needs any watering, fertilizing, or pruning. Here are some simple tips for getting the most out of this plant:
- Plant in full sun for the heaviest flowering
- Water occasionally in extreme heat or drought
- Cut back spent flower stems to encourage reblooming
- Divide congested plants every 2-3 years in early spring
- Prune lightly after flowering to tidy appearance
- Avoid fertilizing which can cause lush, floppy growth
Propagation and Pests/Problems
Snow in the summer is easily propagated by seed or division in spring. Seeds can be directly sown outdoors in prepared soil. The plant has no serious pest or disease issues. Potential problems to watch for include:
- Powdery mildew if planted in too much shade or moisture
- Leaf spots or botrytis blight in excess humidity
- Damage from slugs and snails
Where to Buy Snow in the Summer
Many online plant shops and nurseries that sell perennials have snow in the summer. Giant Snow-in-Summer is a big variety sold by High Country Gardens. It has extra-large leaves and a vigorous, spreading habit. It was found growing in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and it does best in hot, dry places with poor soil.
With its stellar performance, low-maintenance habits, and blankets of summer blooms, snow in the summer is a stellar addition to any garden. Order plants online or check for availability at your local garden center. Then sit back and enjoy the snow during the hottest months of the year!
Light
This plant prefers full sun conditions. Snow-in-summer can develop fungal problems if planted in the shade.
Temperature and Humidity
Snow-in-summer likes relatively cool, dry summers. It will be very short-lived if planted in hot, humid climates. However, snow-in-summer is salt-tolerant and does well in cooler coastal regions.
Flower Gardens : How to Grow Snow-In-Summer (Cerastium Tomentosum)
FAQ
Is Snow-in-Summer a perennial?
Yes, Snow-in-Summer is a perennial plant.
Is Snow-in-Summer plant invasive?
It’s not considered an invasive species, but it can become a weed in places with cooler summers because the plant is stronger there.
Where is the best place to plant snow in the summer?
Grow snow in summer in full sun ideally, it prefers dry conditions and is an excellent drought-tolerant plant. A well-draining soil is crucial, damp or poorly draining soil may result in fungal problems or root rot.
Does Snow-in-Summer spread quickly?
Evergreen, it spreads quickly by reseeding itself and makes a great ground cover for sunny areas. Winter hardy, this low-growing perennial grows only 6-12 in. tall (15-30 cm) and spreads 6-18 in. (15-45 cm).