[bendipa]

I've always thought that alpines were fairly drought resistant. I have 4 of these growing in a container, (12" deep x 6" sq) in a 50/50 mixture of sand and uni-compost. But despite being exposed to some recent rain, I've noticed after a few dry days that a couple of them began to wilt, notably a Helianthemum and a Mazus Rwptans. The other 2 alpines, a Veronica Waterperry and Campanuls Carpatica were unaffected. I've watered since and the 2 wilted plants since perked up. But I'm surprised they wilted so easily,.especially as the Helianthemum can withstand hot, dry conditions and it's been cold.

[Yorkie]

It may be that the plants are preventing too much water from being absorbed into the compost.  Alpines tolerate wet because of the decent drainage, but don't always appreciate lack of water - although I'm not an expert on the particular plants you've mentioned.

[bendipa]

It may be that the plants are preventing too much water from being absorbed into the compost.  Alpines tolerate wet because of the decent drainage, but don't always appreciate lack of water - although I'm not an expert on the particular plants you've mentioned.

I don't think so. I've discovered that I was under the misleading impression that alpines could tolerate very dry conditions. Having had this discussion elsewhere with an expert, this is a myth, which for some reason gardening programmes and books continue to perpetuate because such plants usually grow ina top layer of sand/scree. It's become clear to me now that if you grow a few of these in a confined space like a container the roots still need to be kept damp Alpines are no different to any other plant (ex cacti) in that respect.

[Trillium]

I agree, bendipa. Alpines need water just like any other plant. But they also need very good drainage to get rid of excess water. Which is not the same thing as liking dry conditions. They just don't like wet feet as most plants appreciate.

Yours could have such heavy top growth that they're acting like umbrellas and not allowing in any water, so it might be a good idea to gently push aside some top growth and point some water directly at the root area. I suspect they'll perk up quickly. If this is the problem, then you might want to trim off a bit of excess growth to allow rain to reach the root areas more easily.