How to Grow Landscaping Shrubs And Bushes - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Landscaping shrubs and bushes is a great way to add color and interest to your yard. There are many different types of shrubs and bushes to choose from, so you can find the perfect plants to complement your home’s style. Planting shrubs and bushes is also a great way to add privacy to your yard.

How to Grow Landscaping Shrubs And Bushes - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • Ardisia crenata
  • Camellia japonica
  • Euonymus alatus
  • Ilex crenata
  • Ligustrum japonicum

Basic info

  • When choosing shrubs and bushes for your landscape, consider the plant's form, size, and growth habit.
  • Deciduous shrubs and bushes lose their leaves in fall and can provide year-round interest in the landscape.
  • Evergreen shrubs and bushes keep their leaves year-round and can provide year-round privacy and windbreaks.
  • Select shrubs and bushes that are native to your region for the best results.
  • Plant shrubs and bushes in well-drained soil in an area that receives full sun or partial shade.
  • Water shrubs and bushes regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system.
  • Fertilize shrubs and bushes yearly with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Prune shrubs and bushes as needed to maintain their shape and size.
  • Protect shrubs and bushes from deer and other pests with fencing or other barriers.
  • Enjoy the beauty and benefits that shrubs and bushes add to your landscape!

Related plant:
Landscaping Bushes

Growing Steps

  1. For landscaping shrubs and bushes, first step is to select the right plant for the right place.
  2. Make sure to dig a hole that is twice the size of the plant's root ball and just as deep.
  3. Gently remove the plant from its container and loosen any tightly wound roots.
  4. Position the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
  5. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping gently as you go.
  6. Water the plant deeply and apply a 2-inch layer of mulch around the base, being careful not to pile it up against the stem.
  7. Fertilize the shrub or bush according to the manufacturer's directions.
  8. Prune the plant as needed to maintain its shape.
  9. Monitor the plant for pests and diseases and take action as needed.
  10. Enjoy your beautiful landscaping shrubs and bushes!

Related plant:
Landscaping Shrubs

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, it is generally true that the best time to plant is in early spring or late fall, when the weather is cool and the soil is moist. One exception is if you are planting in very hot, dry weather, in which case it is best to wait for a rainstorm or to water the planting site well before you dig. If the soil is very dry, it will need to be soaked overnight.

About light

Just like other plants, shrubs and bushes also need sunlight to grow. However, unlike other plants, they can tolerate shady areas and still grow relatively well. This is because they have evolved to grow in areas where there is little sunlight. Therefore, when choosing shrubs and bushes for your landscaping, you need to consider the amount of sunlight that the area receives. If the area is in full sun, then you will need to choose shrubs and bushes that can tolerate that amount of sunlight. If the area is in partial sun, then you will need to choose shrubs and bushes that can tolerate that amount of sunlight.

The Temperature

The temperature conditions in your area will determine what types of landscaping shrubs and bushes you can plant. If you live in an area with warm summers and cold winters, you'll need to choose shrubs and bushes that can withstand both extreme temperatures. Some examples of shrubs and bushes that can withstand both hot and cold temperatures include: Forsythia, Gardenia, Holly, and Hydrangea.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is (50-65%) As (landscaping shrubs and bushes) are native to moist, shady areas, they prefer humid conditions. The ideal humidity level for these plants is 50-65%. If the air is too dry, the leaves will begin to drop and the plant will become stressed. If the air is too humid, the plant may become susceptible to fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

Discussing fertilizer, this kind of plant food is essential for keeping your landscaping shrubs and bushes healthy and strong. When selecting a fertilizer, be sure to get one that is made specifically for shrubs and bushes, as this will ensure that your plants get the nutrients they need to thrive. In terms of how often to fertilize, most experts recommend doing so every six to eight weeks during the growing season. However, if you live in an area with a lot of rain, you may need to fertilize more often to prevent nutrient runoff. Finally, always apply fertilizer to the root zone of your plants to ensure that they are able to absorb it properly.

About light

Pruning is a important aspect of keeping your landscaping shrubs and bushes looking their best. By selectively pruning back overgrown branches, you can encourage new growth, shape the plant, and remove diseased or damaged areas. The best time to prune varies depending on the plant, but generally speaking, it is best to prune in the late fall or early winter when the plant is dormant.

Plant Propagation

Propagation is the process of creating new plants from existing ones. It is a form of asexual reproduction, which means that the new plants are genetically identical to the parent plant. The most common method of propagation for landscaping shrubs and bushes is via cuttings. Cuttings are taken from the parent plant and then placed in a rooting medium, such as soil, sand, or water. The rooting medium provides the nutrients and moisture that the cutting needs to develop new roots. Once the cutting has developed a sufficient root system, it can be transplanted into the desired location.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate falls somewhere in between fast and slow growers. This is due to the plant's genetic makeup and environment. However, there are a few landscaping shrubs and bushes that grow at a rate that is significantly slower or faster than average.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are usually over or under watering, incorrect light exposure, and poor drainage. Most plants need well-draining, moist soil and plenty of sunlight to thrive. If a plant is not getting enough water, it will start to wilt and its leaves will turn brown. If a plant is getting too much water, its leaves will start to yellow and drop off.

Basics of Growing

  • Remember to plant your shrub or bush in an area that receives plenty of sunlight.
  • Be sure to loosen the soil around the plant before you plant it.
  • Use a shovel or trowel to make a hole that is twice the width of the plant's root ball.
  • Gently remove the plant from its container and place it in the planting hole.
  • Backfill the hole with soil, being sure to pack it lightly around the plant.
  • Water the plant thoroughly after planting.
  • Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant.
  • Prune the plant as needed to encourage growth and to shape it as desired.
  • Fertilize the plant according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Monitor the plant regularly for signs of pests or disease and take appropriate action as needed.

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Source:
Landscape Shrubs A - B by Common Name - University of …
Trees and shrubs | UMN Extension - University of Minnesota
Landscape: Guidelines for Planting Trees and Shrubs | Center for ...

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Shrubs Category