Maintenance Landscaping Design

Ninebark tree is a plant that belongs to the rose family. It is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. The leaves of the ninebark tree are ovate in shape and they are arranged in a spiral fashion on the stems. The flowers of the ninebark tree are white or pink in color and they bloom in the months of May and June. The fruit of the ninebark tree is a dark colored drupe that is about 8mm in size.

Also known as

• Common Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius)
  
• American Cranberrybush (Viburnum opulus var. americanum)
  
• European Cranberrybush (Viburnum opulus var. opulus)
  
• Guelder-rose (Viburnum opulus var. gueldericum)
  
• Snowball Tree (Viburnum opulus var. roseum)
  

Good to Know

• The Ninebark tree is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America.
  
• It gets its name from the fact that its bark peels off in nine layers.
  
• The tree can grow to be up to 20 feet tall.
  
• The leaves of the tree are small and oval shaped.
  
• The flowers of the tree are white or pink and bloom in the spring.
  
• The fruit of the tree is a small, dark colored berry.
  
• The Ninebark tree is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of conditions.
  
• The tree is often used as an ornamental plant in landscaping.
  
• The Ninebark tree is susceptible to a number of diseases and pests.
  
• The tree has a long lifespan and can live for 100 years or more.

Related plant:
Diabolo Ninebark

Planting Process

1. For ninebark tree, first step is to find a sunny spot in your yard with well-drained soil.
   
2. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to help improve drainage and fertility.
   
3. Dig a hole twice the width of the tree's root ball and just as deep.
   
4. Set the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping it down as you go to remove any air pockets.
   
5. Water the tree deeply immediately after planting.
   
6. Apply a 2- to 4-inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree, keeping it several inches away from the trunk.
   
7. Water the tree regularly during the first growing season to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
   
8. Fertilize the tree in early spring with a balanced fertilizer formulated for trees and shrubs.
   
9. Prune ninebark trees in late winter or early spring to shape and remove any damaged or diseased branches.
   
10. Enjoy the showy blooms and colorful foliage of your ninebark tree for many years to come!

Related plant:
Pacific Ninebark

Soil Condition

About soil condition, ninebark tree grows best in moist to wet soils, with a high organic content. It tolerates a range of soils, including heavy clay. It does not do well in dry or sandy soils. The roots of ninebark tree are relatively shallow, so it does not tolerate long periods of drought well.

About light

So, like the other plants, the ninebark tree needs sunlight to grow. However, it can tolerate shady conditions better than most trees. In fact, it is often found in woodlands, where it receives dappled sunlight. When choosing a spot to plant your ninebark tree, make sure it gets at least six hours of sunlight each day.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition that is most favorable for the ninebark tree is a cool climate. The ninebark tree is native to North America, and it is most commonly found in the northern United States and Canada. The ninebark tree is a hardy tree that can tolerate cold temperatures. The ninebark tree is also tolerant of drought conditions.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 40%. If the humidity level drops below 30%, the leaves will start to curl and drop off. If the humidity level gets too high, the leaves will turn yellow and drop off.

Fertilizer Requirement

Regarding fertilizer, this type of plant does best with something that is low in phosphorus and has a 3-1-2 or 4-1-2 NPK ratio. An organic option would be best, but make sure it is still high in nitrogen. Top dress the soil around the base of the plant with the fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer. As for the roots, ninebarks can be quite aggressive so you may want to put down some root barriers if you are planting them near sidewalks, patios, or driveways.

Light requirement

Pruning is important for ninebarks to ensure that they remain healthy and vigorous. When pruning, be sure to remove any dead, diseased, or crossed branches. It is also important to thin out the canopy to increase air circulation and light penetration. Finally, prune to shape the tree as desired.

Plant Propagation

Propagation is by softwood cuttings in late spring or by seed in fall. Take softwood cuttings from young shoots that have not yet hardened off, and plant them immediately in moist potting mix. Keep the cuttings warm and moist until they have rooted. Fall-sown seed should be cold-stratified for two months before sowing.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate is considered fast. However, there are a few things that can impact the growth rate. These include the age of the tree, the soil type, the climate, and the amount of water and sunlight the tree gets.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are the canker diseases. Canker diseases affect the twigs, branches and trunk of the tree, causing dieback and eventually death. The best way to prevent these diseases is to plant ninebark trees in well-drained soils and to prune out any diseased branches.

Tips on Growing

• Remember to plant your ninebark tree in an area with full sun to partial shade.
  
• This tree prefers moist, well-drained soils, so be sure to keep an eye on the moisture levels in your planting area.
  
• When first planting, water your ninebark tree deeply and regularly for the first growing season to help it establish a strong root system.
  
• Once established, this tree is relatively drought tolerant.
  
• Apply a layer of mulch around your ninebark tree to help conserve moisture and protect the roots.
  
• Fertilize your tree every spring with a balanced fertilizer to encourage growth.
  
• Prune your ninebark tree in late winter or early spring to shape it and remove any dead or damaged branches.
  
• Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases that can affect ninebark trees, such as aphids, scale, and powdery mildew.

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Source:
Physocarpus opulifolius 'Summer Wine' (Ninebark, Nine Bark, …
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