Jacob's ladder (Polemonium caeruleum) grows naturally in shady forests and moist woods, but the hearty plant can also survive drier and sunnier locations. It's adaptability and hardiness, along with it's delicate pale blue or purple flowers make it a favorite for gardeners. Jacob's ladder is suited to Sunset Climate Zones 1 through 11 and 14 to 17. The plants don't need much care, making them ideal for busy or beginning gardeners. Meet Jacob's ladder's basic needs and this plant will come back and treat you with its ladder-shaped foliage and tiny blooms year after.
Choose a location in your garden with partial shade. Jacob's ladder can grow in full sun, but it thrives in shadier locations.
Plant in well-drained soil. If your soil retains a lot of moisture or drains poorly, amend it with sand, peat, pumice or other additives to improve drainage.
Space your plants 18 to 24 inches apart to allow room for growth. Jacob's ladder reaches about 2 feet wide and 3 feet tall.
Water regularly so the soil doesn't dry out. Jacob's ladder grows best in consistently moist but not wet soil. The tiny blooms wilt quickly in dry conditions.
Cut back the dead stalks after the first bloom to encourage the plant to bloom again in mid- to late summer. Feed in early spring, midsummer and fall with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Feeding during fall isn't required, but helps the plant survive winter.
Things You Will Need
- Balanced fertilizer
- Stakes, optional
- Fast, tall growing plants sometimes droop. Staking can help keep the plant upright, but isn't necessary for survival. Stake if you prefer more upright stalks or live in an area with high winds.