Product Review

Delosperma floribunda, or commonly known as Ice Plant, is a rewarding perennial to grow in the flower border because it has a long bloom season, from spring until fall. This variety, Stardust, is fast-growing with succulent foliage and 2 inch purple blooms that will attract lots of attention. It is gorgeous growing along the edge of a flower border, in containers, in rock gardens, and because it spreads, it works well as a general ground cover. It likes full sun and tolerates drought and heat well. Ice Plant is a great option to plant up against a rock wall or along a cement walkway. It does prefer fast-draining soils and does not like to have "wet feet." It also is usually resistant to deer. Ice Plant ground cover seed can be started either indoors or directly outside. If starting inside, start the seed 6 - 8 weeks before the end of frost season. If starting outdoors, wait until frost danger has passed and soil temperatures have warmed to 70F. Press the seed into the soil but do not cover it. Keep the seed consistently moist until germination occurs which is usually within 21 days. For transplanting into the garden, wait until frost season has passed and space the plants about 10 inches apart.