Beauty bush is a plant that many people use to adorn their gardens. It has a beautiful white flower that blooms early in the season.
Related plant:
Sambucus Black Beauty
Related plant:
Cotoneaster Dammeri Coral Beauty
About soil condition, the beauty bush prefers well-drained, average to loamy soil, but it is adaptable to other types. too much water or too little water can lead to problems. The bush does best in full sun to partial shade.
Just like other garden shrubs, beauty bush does best in full sun to partial shade. In very hot climates, some afternoon shade is appreciated. It will also tolerate full shade, but wont bloom as profusely.
The temperature condition of Beauty Bush is best described as warm. This plant prefers average to warm temperatures and will not tolerate cold conditions. Beauty Bush will thrive in a location that receives full sun to partial shade.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 40%. If the humidity level is too low, the leaves will start to turn brown and drop off. If the humidity level is too high, the leaves will start to yellow and drop off.
Mentioning fertilizer, this kind of plant loves acidic soil. If you have neutral or clay soil, mix in some organic matter, such as compost, to help improve drainage. You can also planted beauty bush in raised beds. It's generally a low-maintenance plant, but will benefit from an annual feeding in spring with a granular fertilizer formulated for shrubs. To encourage more blooms, prune beauty bush back by about one-third immediately after flowering.
Pruning a beauty bush is a simple process that can be done with just a few tools. First, you will need a sharp pair of pruning shears. Second, you will need a small saw to remove any large branches. Third, you will need a small axe to remove any small branches. Finally, you will need a small hand trowel to remove any roots. To begin pruning your beauty bush, start by removing any dead or diseased branches. Next, remove any branches that are rubbing against each other. Finally, remove any branches that are crossing over each other. When you are finished pruning, your bush should have a neat and tidy appearance.
Propagation is by seed, softwood or semi-ripe cuttings. Sow seed in mid to late spring at 15-20C on the surface of a well drained, humus-rich seed sowing mix. Seeds usually germinate in 21-30 days. Place the seedlings out into the garden in late spring or early summer. Softwood cuttings can be taken in late spring or early summer from side shoots. Use a propagator or bottom heat to maintain a temperature of 21-24C. Rooting hormone powder can be used to encourage rooting. Semi-ripe cuttings can be taken in mid to late summer from side shoots that have started to harden off.
Usually, the plant growth rate is determined by the species, but generally fall in a range of 10 to 24 inches per year. Some species are faster growers, while others are known for being more slow and methodical in their growth. Regardless of the species, beauty bush plants typically reach their full potential height and width within 3 to 5 years -- though faster growers may max out sooner, and slower growers may take a bit longer.
Common problems for this kind of plant include over watering, not enough drainage, too much sun, and winter burn. When planting, be sure to choose a location with well-drained soil. Water beauty bush deeply, but only when the soil is dry to the touch. Don't forget to mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture. In hot summer months, beauty bush may need to be watered more frequently. Provide protection from the hot afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch. To avoid winter burn, apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant before the first frost.
Source:
Callicarpa americana - North Carolina State University
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