How to Grow Decorative Shrubs - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Decorative shrubs is one of the best ways to add color and interest to your landscape. They are easy to care for and can be used to create a variety of looks. Whether you are looking for something to add curb appeal to your home or you want to create a beautiful garden, decorative shrubs are a great option.

How to Grow Decorative Shrubs - Plant Care & Tips

Popular name

  • Berberis thunbergii
  • Buxus sempervirens
  • Ilexaquifolium
  • Juniperus chinensis
  • Taxus baccata

Things to Know

  • Decorative shrubs are used to add color, texture, and form to gardens.
  • They are usually low-maintenance, fast-growing, and provide year-round interest.
  • Decorative shrubs come in a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes.
  • They can be used as specimen plants, hedges, or groundcover.
  • Decorative shrubs are relatively drought-tolerant and can tolerate most soil types.
  • Pruning is generally only necessary to shape or control growth.
  • Fertilizing is not typically required, but may be beneficial for some species.
  • Common pests and diseases include aphids, scale, and powdery mildew.
  • Deer and rabbits may also browse on decorative shrubs.
  • Some popular decorative shrubs include azaleas, hydrangeas, boxwoods, and holly.

Growing Steps

  1. For decorative shrubs, first step is to select a location that receives full sun or partial shade and has well-drained soil.
  2. If planting in full sun, make sure to choose a location that is sheltered from strong winds.
  3. Prepare the planting hole by digging it twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball of the plant.
  4. Loosen the roots of the plant and place it in the hole.
  5. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down as you go.
  6. Water the plant deeply to settle the roots.
  7. Add a layer of mulch around the base of the plant, keeping it several inches away from the trunk or stems.
  8. Fertilize the plant according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  9. Prune the plant as needed to shape it and remove any damaged or diseased branches.
  10. Enjoy your beautiful new decorative shrub!

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, many decorative shrubs prefer well-drained soils rich in organic matter. Some, like azaleas and rhododendrons, need acidic soils to thrive; others, such as camellias and gardenias, prefer more neutral to slightly alkaline conditions. Most shrubs will tolerate a wide range of soil type and pH, however, as long as the drainage is good.

Light requirement

Similar to other plants, decorative shrubs need sunlight to grow. The amount of sun required depends on the type of shrub. Some shrubs can tolerate low light or shade, while others require full sun. When choosing a decorative shrub, be sure to consider the sun requirements.

The Temperature

The temperature condition is an important factor to consider when choosing decorative shrubs. Some shrubs are more tolerant of cold temperatures than others. If you live in an area with cold winters, you will need to choose shrubs that are more tolerant of cold temperatures.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50% to 60%. The leaves of this plant will start to brown and drop off if the humidity level drops below 50%. If the humidity level is too high, the leaves will become yellow and start to drop off.

The Fertilizer

For the fertilizer, this plant needs decomposing organic matter rich in nitrogen and potassium. This can be in the form of manure, compost, or leaf mold. Apply it around the base of the plant, taking care not to get any on the leaves, and water it in well. For the root, the plant needs well-drained soil that is kept moist but not soggy. If the soil is too heavy, it will compact and suffocate the roots.

Plant Pruning

Pruning is an important part of maintaining your decorative shrubs. By pruning your shrubs, you can encourage new growth, shape the plant, and remove any dead or diseased branches. When pruning, be sure to use clean, sharp pruning shears. Make sure to prune at the correct time of year for your specific plant.

Plant Propagation

Propagation is one of the most important aspects of decorative shrub care. There are many ways to propagate shrubs, but the most common is by rooting cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from new growth that is still soft and flexible. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and the bottom 2 inches should be placed in a rooting hormone. The cuttings should be placed in a pot with well-drained soil and kept moist. After a few weeks, the roots should begin to form and the plant can be transplanted to its permanent location.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate is relatively slow. This means that they require less pruning and trimming than other types of plants. However, they still need to be monitored so they do not become overgrown.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are Aphids, spider mites, scale, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with a number of insecticides including neem oil, horticultural oil, and insecticidal soap.

List to Know

  • If you want to grow decorative shrubs, make sure you choose a plant that is right for your climate.
  • Make sure you have the right soil for the plant you want to grow.
  • Water your plant regularly.
  • Fertilize your plant according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Prune your plant regularly to encourage new growth.
  • Place your plant in an area that gets plenty of sunlight.
  • Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and treat them accordingly.
  • Harvest your plant when it is ready.
  • Preserve your plant properly to keep it looking its best.
  • Enjoy your beautiful decorative shrub!

Alternative Plants

  • Deutzia
  • Deutzia scabra
  • Deutzia crenata
  • Deutzia stahlii
  • Deutzia gracilis
  • Deutzia crenata
  • Deutzia scabra
  • Deutzia stahlii
  • Deutzia gracilis
  • Deutzia crenata

Source:
Arkansas Ornamental Shrubs | Flowering shrubs in Arkansas
Shrubs - Gardening Solutions - University of Florida
Trees and shrubs | UMN Extension - University of Minnesota

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Shrubs Category