Maintenance Landscaping Design

Viburnum is a genus of about 150–175 species of flowering plants in the moschatel family (adoxaceae) native to the northern hemisphere. the genus name refers to the native northern hemisphere species. most species are shrubs 1–3 m tall, but some are small trees up to 15 m or large shrubs up to 8 m tall.

Popular name

• American cranberry
  
• Aronia
  
• Black haw
  
• Common snowball
  
• Cramp bark

Common Knowledge

• Viburnum is a genus of around 150-175 species of shrubs or small trees.
  
• The genus is native to temperate to subtropical regions of the Northern Hemisphere, with the greatest species diversity in East Asia.
  
• Viburnum species are often used as ornamental plants in gardens.
  
• Some species are grown for their edible fruits, such as the cranberry viburnum (V. trilobum) and the southern highbush blueberry (V. darrowii).
  
• Other species, such as the Wayfaring Tree (V. lantana), are grown for their ornamental value.
  
• The flowers of viburnums are highly attractive to pollinators, such as bees, and the fruits are eaten by a wide variety of birds.
  
• Viburnums are generally easy to grow and are tolerant of a wide range of conditions.
  
• However, they can be susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, so it is important to choose the right species for your garden and to provide the necessary care and maintenance.
  
• Viburnums can be propagated from seed, cuttings, or division, and many species can be readily available from nurseries and garden centres.
  
• With so many different species to choose from, there is sure to be a viburnum that will suit your garden and your needs.

Related plant:
Viburnum Opulus Compactum

Growing Steps

1. For viburnum, first step is to identify the plant that you want to grow from seed. You will need to know the specific name of the plant in order to find the appropriate seed.
   
2. Once you have found the seeds, the next step is to plant them. You will need to find a location that receives full sun and has well-drained soil.
   
3. After you have planted the seeds, you will need to water them regularly. Make sure to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
   
4. Once the plants have germinated, the next step is to thin them out. You will need to thin out the weaker plants so that the stronger ones can grow.
   
5. As the plants grow, you will need to fertilize them. Use a fertilizer that is high in phosphorus in order to encourage blooming.
   
6. Once the plants have reached a height of 12-18 inches, the next step is to pinch back the tips. This will encourage the plant to branch out and become fuller.
   
7. Once the plants have reached their desired size, the next step is to deadhead them. This means removing the spent flowers in order to encourage more blooms.
   
8. In the fall, the next step is to prune the plants. This will help to shape the plant and encourage new growth in the spring.
   
9. The final step is to winterize the plants. This means protecting them from the cold weather so that they can survive the winter.

Related plant:
Viburnum Tinus

Soil Condition

About soil conditions, viburnum can grow in a wide range of soils as long as they are well drained. It prefer rich moist soils but will tolerate poorer ones. Avoid soils that are waterlogged. It can be found growing on ledges and in lean soils in the wild.

Light condition

Just like other viburnums, the sunlight requirement for the species is at least 4 hours. The best place to plant it would be in an area that gets full sun in the morning and afternoon, with some shade in the hottest part of the day. It's also important to have well-drained soil.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition that is necessary for the growth of the plant known as viburnum is one that is relatively cool. This plant is native to regions that experience a lot of snowfall and cold weather, such as parts of North America and Europe. In order for viburnum to thrive, the temperature must be below freezing for a significant portion of the year. Otherwise, the plant will not be able to produce the necessary flowers and fruits.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50%. They need well-drained, moist soil rich in organic matter, however, they are very adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. The root system is very sensitive to drought, so make sure to keep the soil moist, but not soggy. Viburnums are very tolerant of salt and will do well in coastal areas.

Fertilizer Requirement

Mentioning fertilizer, this family of plant does best with a soil that has been amended with organic matter and that has a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. You can fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10. For established plants, fertilize in early spring before new growth begins. Apply the fertilizer at the rate recommended on the package for the size of your plant. Be sure to water the fertilizer into the root zone.

About light

Pruning viburnum is important to maintain its shape and encourage new growth. When pruning, cut back the main stems to just above a lateral branch. This will encourage the plant to branch out and fill in any bare areas. Trim off any dead or damaged branches, as well as any that are crossing or rubbing against other branches.

Plant Propagation

Propagation is by seed, softwood or hardwood cuttings, or layering. Seeds germinate readily, and young plants can be transplanted easily. Softwood cuttings can be taken in late spring or early summer, while hardwood cuttings are best taken in late fall or early winter. Layering can be done at any time of year.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate is fast, allowing the plant to reach its full potential size within a few years. The average growth rate for a viburnum is between 10 and 15 inches per year. However, some varieties of viburnum can grow at a rate of 20 inches or more per year.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant include: 1. Crown gall – This is a bacterial disease that affects the roots and stems of the plant. The plant will develop galls, or tumors, on the stems which can stunt the plant's growth. 2. Powdery mildew – This is a fungus that appears as a white powder on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop off. 3. Black rot – This is a fungal disease that affects the fruit of the plant. The fruit will turn black and rotting. 4. Verticillium wilt – This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant. The leaves will turn yellow and drop off.

Basics of Growing

• Make sure to plant your viburnum in an area with full sun to partial shade.
  
• When first planting, make sure to water the area well.
  
• For best results, amend the soil with compost or other organic matter.
  
• Mulch around the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  
• Prune as needed to keep the plant shapely and to remove any dead or diseased branches.
  
• Fertilize in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
  
• Make sure to keep the plant watered during prolonged dry periods.
  
• If the plant becomes too large, you can prune it back hard in early spring.
  
• The plant is generally pest and disease resistant, but watch for scale, aphids and borers.
  
• Viburnum can be propagated by softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.

Alternative Plants

• Viburnum japonicum
  
• Viburnum x bodnantense
  
• Viburnum amurdag
  
• Viburnum bracteatum
  
• Viburnum cylindricum
  
• Viburnum dilatatum
  
• Viburnum dulcificum
  
• Viburnum edule
  
• Viburnum ferrugineum
  
• Viburnum fragrans

Source:
Viburnum Diseases - Penn State Extension
Viburnums | UNL Gardens | Nebraska
Mapleleaf Viburnum | University of Maryland Extension