Maintenance Landscaping Design

Elaeagnus shrub is a hardy, low-maintenance shrub that is perfect for gardens and landscapes. It is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide. Elaeagnus shrubs are drought tolerant and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. They have small, fragrant white flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The fruits of elaeagnus shrubs are silver-colored and can be used in jams and jellies.

Alternative name

• wolfberry
  
• autumn olive
  
• redvein enkianthus
  
• silverberry
  
• Russian olive

Basic info

• The elaeagnus shrub is a deciduous shrub that is native to Asia.
  
• It has a spreading habit and can grow up to 6 feet tall and 10 feet wide.
  
• The leaves of the elaeagnus shrub are elliptical in shape and have a silver-green color.
  
• The flowers of the elaeagnus shrub are small and white and appear in clusters.
  
• The fruit of the elaeagnus shrub is a small, dark-colored drupe.
  
• The elaeagnus shrub is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions.
  
• It is resistant to drought and salt spray.
  
• The elaeagnus shrub is an important food source for birds and other wildlife.
  
• It can be used as a hedge or screen plant.
  
• The elaeagnus shrub is considered to be an invasive species in some areas.

Related plant:
Elaeagnus Multiflora

How to Grow

1. For elaeagnus shrub, first step is to find a location where the plant will get full sun or partial sun.
   
2. The second step is to prepare the soil. Elaeagnus shrub grows best in rich, well-drained soil.
   
3. The third step is to plant the shrub. Elaeagnus shrub can be planted in spring or fall.
   
4. The fourth step is to water the shrub regularly. Elaeagnus shrub needs to be kept moist but not soggy.
   
5. The fifth step is to fertilize the shrub. Elaeagnus shrub benefits from a balanced fertilizer.
   
6. The sixth step is to prune the shrub. Elaeagnus shrub can be pruned to shape it or to control its size.
   
7. The seventh step is to mulch the shrub. Elaeagnus shrub benefits from a layer of mulch to help keep the roots cool and moist.
   
8. The eighth step is to monitor the shrub for pests and diseases. Elaeagnus shrub is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases.
   
9. The ninth step is to enjoy the shrub. Elaeagnus shrub is a beautiful plant that can add interest to any landscape.
   
10. The tenth step is to don’t forget to take care of your shrub. Elaeagnus shrub needs regular care to stay healthy and look its best.

Related plant:
Elaeagnus Macrophylla

The Soil

About soil conditions, elaeagnus shrubs are not too fussy. They will grow in average to poor soil, as well as in sandy or clay soil. The only thing they won't tolerate is soggy, waterlogged soil. If your soil is on the heavy side, you can improve drainage by amending it with some sand. Elaeagnus shrubs are also tolerant of salt, making them a good choice for planting near roads or in coastal areas.

Light condition

So, like the other Elaeagnus species, the Elaeagnus Shrub prefers full sun to partial shade. It is drought tolerant, but not salt tolerant. The shrub can grow in most types of soil, as long as it is well-drained. It is a fast grower and can reach up to 15 feet tall. Elaeagnus Shrubs are easy to care for and make a great addition to any landscape.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for the elaeagnus shrub is a warm climate. This shrub thrives in locations where the temperature is above freezing for most of the year. The elaeagnus shrub is a hardy plant that can withstand colder temperatures than most shrubs, but it will not thrive in locations where the temperature regularly dips below freezing.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 50%. If the humidity drops below 40%, the leaves will start to fall off. If the humidity gets too high, around 60%, the leaves will start to turn yellow.

Fertilizing

For the fertilizer, usually the plant does not need special attention. You can apply a regular dose of compost or manure to the base of the plant in early spring. If you have very sandy soil, you may need to add a bit more fertilizer than usual. As for the roots, they are fairly adaptable and can tolerate a range of soil types. However, they do prefer well-draining soil. If you have compacted or clay soil, you may need to amend it before planting the elaeagnus shrub.

Light requirement

Pruning is an important part of keeping your elaeagnus shrub looking its best. This evergreen shrub can quickly become overgrown and leggy if it is not pruned regularly. Pruning also encourages new growth, which can help to keep your shrub looking fuller and more compact. To prune your elaeagnus shrub, start by removing any dead or diseased branches. Cut these back to the point where they branch off from the main stem. Next, trim back any branches that are growing out of bounds or crossing over other branches. Finally, cut back any long or leggy branches to the desired length. It is best to prune your elaeagnus shrub in the late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. This will give the plant time to recover from its pruning before the growing season begins.

Plant Propagation

Propagation is typically done by seed, but can also be done by softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Take cuttings from new growth that is not yet woody, and plant in moistened soil. Keep the soil moist until the cuttings have rooted.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate is considered to be fast. However, there are a few things that can impact the growth rate of these shrubs. Soil type, amount of sunlight, and watering can all affect the growth rate. Overall, elaeagnus shrubs are quite hardy and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. With proper care, they can reach their full potential and provide beautiful coverage in any landscape.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are leaf spot, powdery mildew, root rot, and canker. If you see any of these problems on your plant, you should take action to correct them. Leaf spot can be controlled by pruning off affected leaves and treating the plant with a fungicide. Powdery mildew can be controlled by treating the plant with a fungicide or by planting resistant varieties. Root rot can be controlled by improving drainage and by treating the plant with a fungicide. Canker can be controlled by pruning off affected branches and by treating the plant with a fungicide.

Tips on Growing

• If you live in a cold climate, it is best to wait until after the last frost to plant elaeagnus.
  
• Dig a hole that is twice the size of the plant's root ball.
  
• Amend the soil with compost or organic matter before planting.
  
• Water the plant deeply after planting.
  
• Place the plant in an area that receives full sun to partial shade.
  
• Prune the plant in early spring to shape it as desired.
  
• Fertilize the plant with an all-purpose fertilizer in early spring.
  
• Water the plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
  
• Mulch around the plant to help retain moisture.
  
• Watch for pests and diseases and take appropriate action if needed.

Alternative Plants

• Elaeagnus umbellata
  
• Elaeagnus divaricata
  
• Elaeagnus x ebbingei
  
• Elaeagnus oxycarpa
  
• Elaeagnus pungens
  
• Elaeagnus rhamnoides
  
• Elaeagnus angustifolia
  
• Elaeagnus commutata
  
• Elaeagnus multiflora
  
• Elaeagnus macrophylla

Source:
| Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants | University of Florida, IFAS
Elaeagnus umbellata | Landscape Plants | Oregon State University
Silverthorn - Gardening Solutions - University of Florida