Alpine skullcap

Alpine skullcap should be watered when the top inch or 2 of soil is dry. Depending on conditions, this usually happens once or twice a week, on average. When watering, aim for slow and deep saturation. Avoid wetting the foliage, and let the water soak all the way to the roots. Avoid over-watering, as this can cause root rot.

Alpine skullcap is a perennial plant that loves full sun exposure in order to perform at its best. In its optimum range, it should receive 4-6 hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight every day. At higher altitudes, it may need less direct sunlight, due to the higher levels of atmospheric scattering from the sun's rays. During the summer months when the sun is highest in the sky, the plants should have some partial shade in the afternoons to prevent sunburn. During the spring and autumn months, the sun should be best availed of in the mornings before 11am and in the afternoons after 4pm.

Alpine skullcap (Scutellaria alpina) should be pruned in late winter or early spring, after the last frost. Prune back any damaged or dead branches to promote new growth. Pinch off any flowers that appear, as flowering takes nutrients away from the plant. Care should be taken not to remove too much of the foliage, as it can lead to over-pruning. If the plant looks over-pruned or lanky, prune back lightly.