Dusty Miller - 6 pack

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Botanical Name: Jacobaea maritima (formerly Senecio cineraria)
Common Names: Dusty Miller, Silver Ragwort
USDA Hardiness Zone: Perennial in Zones 8–10 (grown as an annual in cooler areas)
Type: Tender perennial or annual foliage plant
Height & Spread: 8–18 inches tall x 10–14 inches wide
Foliage: Silvery-gray, velvety leaves; deeply lobed and highly ornamental
Bloom Time: Late spring to midsummer (yellow flowers, often removed to maintain foliage quality)

Sunlight

Dusty Miller prefers full sun for best foliage color and compact growth. It tolerates partial shade but may become leggy or lose its silvery tone in lower light.
In Louisiana’s Zone 9, position it where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily and some afternoon protection during extreme summer heat.

Soil & Planting

Soil Type: Well-draining sandy or loamy soil is essential.
pH Range: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Preparation: Mix compost or aged organic matter into planting beds to improve texture and drainage.
Planting Time:

• Fall (October–November): Ideal for establishing before winter.

• Spring (February–March): Suitable for transplanting after the last frost.

Ensure good spacing (10–12 inches apart) to promote airflow and prevent fungal issues.

Watering

Dusty Miller is drought-tolerant once established. Water newly planted specimens regularly until rooted, then reduce frequency.
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to avoid root rot. Overwatering is the most common cause of plant decline in humid Louisiana conditions.

Fertilizing

Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10 or 14-14-14) at planting time.
Feed once more in midspring if grown year-round. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages soft green growth instead of the desired silvery foliage.

Pruning & Maintenance

Remove yellow or damaged leaves to maintain a clean appearance.
If plants become woody or leggy, shear back by one-third to encourage dense new growth.
You may remove the yellow flower clusters before they bloom to focus the plant’s energy on foliage.

Heat & Cold Tolerance

Dusty Miller performs well in Louisiana’s mild winters and tolerates heat if given adequate drainage and airflow.
It can survive light frosts down to about 25°F, though foliage may burn slightly. In colder snaps, cover with frost cloth.
During peak summer heat, occasional afternoon shade helps maintain color and vigor.

Growing in Containers

Choose containers with excellent drainage and fill with a high-quality potting mix amended with perlite or coarse sand.
Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Dusty Miller pairs beautifully with petunias, verbena, coleus, and other flowering plants for mixed seasonal displays.

Pests & Diseases

Generally pest-resistant, but may occasionally experience:

• Aphids or whiteflies: Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

• Root rot: Caused by poor drainage or overwatering.

• Leaf spot: Rare, but improved air circulation helps prevent it.