How to Grow Low Growing Shrubs - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Low growing shrubs is a type of plant that is typically shorter than a tree and has multiple stems that grow close to the ground. These plants are often used for landscaping purposes because they can provide privacy or serve as a border. Some popular low growing shrubs include azaleas, boxwoods, and holly bushes.

How to Grow Low Growing Shrubs - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • juniper
  • cotoneaster
  • pachysandra
  • ivy
  • boxwood

Basic info

  • Low growing shrubs are perfect for adding privacy and aesthetic value to your yard without sacrificing too much space.
  • They can be used to fill in gaps in your landscaping or to create a border around your property.
  • Low growing shrubs are relatively easy to care for and require little maintenance.
  • Most varieties are drought-tolerant and can thrive in a variety of soil types.
  • Many low growing shrubs are evergreen, meaning they will retain their leaves year-round.
  • Some popular varieties include boxwood, holly, and yews.
  • When choosing low growing shrubs for your yard, be sure to consider the mature size of the plant and its growth habit.
  • Most low growing shrubs can be easily pruned to maintain their size and shape.
  • They are an excellent choice for foundation plantings or for use in mass plantings.
  • Low growing shrubs can provide seasonal interest with their flowers, berries, and foliage.

Related plant:
Hydrangea Paniculata Diamant Rouge

How to Grow

  1. For low growing shrubs, first step is to find a spot in your yard that receives at least six hours of sunlight each day.
  2. Then, you need to prepare the soil by loosening it up and adding some organic matter.
  3. Next, you will want to choose the type of shrub you would like to grow.
  4. Once you have chosen your shrub, it is time to plant it.
  5. Water the shrub regularly, making sure to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
  6. Fertilize the shrub every few weeks during the growing season.
  7. Prune the shrub as needed to keep it looking its best.
  8. Monitor the shrub for pests and diseases and treat accordingly.
  9. Enjoy your beautiful low growing shrub!

Related plant:
Buxus Green Velvet

Soil Condition

About soil condition, low growing shrubs need moist, well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. Mulching around the base of the shrub will help to maintain moisture levels and keep the roots cool.

Light requirement

Not too different with other plants, low-growing shrubs need sunlight to grow. They use sunlight to produce food for themselves through photosynthesis. Without sunlight, they will not be able to grow and will eventually die. Most low-growing shrubs need at least four hours of direct sunlight per day in order to thrive. Some may need even more. If you are not sure how much sunlight your particular variety of low-growing shrub needs, you can check the plant tag or ask your local nursery.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition of low growing shrubs focus on the needs of the plant. Most low growing shrubs need a minimum of six hours of sunlight per day and well-drained soil. When choosing a low growing shrub, consider the sun and soil requirements of the plant as well as the temperature conditions it can tolerate.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50%. They are low-growing shrubs that can spread outwards, reaching a height and width of about 2 feet. The leaves are small, dark green, and glossy. The flowers are white and borne in clusters.

Fertilizing

Regarding fertilizer, this family of plant is not very demanding and will do well with low levels of fertilizer. In fact, too much fertilizer can actually harm these plants. It is best to apply a fertilizer formulated for low growing shrubs or a general purpose fertilizer at one-half the recommended rate. As for watering, these shrubs have relatively shallow root systems and will require more frequent watering than plants with deeper root systems.

About light

Pruning is an important aspect of plant care for low growing shrubs. By pruning, you can control the shape and size of the plant, as well as encourage new growth. When pruning, be sure to remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.

About Propagating

Propagation is the process of creating new plants from a parent plant. It is asexual, meaning that the new plant is genetically identical to the parent plant. Low-growing shrubs can be propagated by taking stem cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them in potting mix. The cuttings will form new roots and grow into new plants.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate is determined by the type of plant. Many factors such as light, water, and soil type can affect a plant's growth rate. Some low growing shrubs can grow quite rapidly, while others may grow more slowly. In general, however, most low growing shrubs will grow at a moderate rate.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant include fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and leaf spot, and infestations by insects, such as aphids and mites. These problems can be controlled with proper care and treatment.

Growing Tips

  • If you want to grow low growing shrubs, choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade.
  • Prepare the soil by loosening it and adding organic matter such as compost or manure.
  • Choose shrubs that are appropriate for your climate and soil conditions.
  • Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
  • Place the shrub in the hole and backfill with soil.
  • Firm the soil around the base of the shrub.
  • Water the shrub deeply immediately after planting.
  • Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  • Prune the shrub as needed to shape it and encourage new growth.
  • Fertilize the shrub once a year with a balanced fertilizer.

Alternative Plants

  • Sunflower
  • Catmint
  • Marigold
  • Chrysanthemum
  • Snapdragon
  • Geranium
  • Petunia
  • Impatiens
  • Zinnia
  • Marigolds

Source:
Trees, Shrubs, and Vines for Low Maintenance Landscapes
Shrubs | NC State Extension - North Carolina State University
Shrubs | Home & Garden Information Center - Clemson University

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Shrubs Category