CG's 'Click It' Features

Hoop Tunnel.

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The lacey flowers of 'Summer Snowflake' are most profuse in springtime, but reappear in smatterings throughout the summer. Photo by Pam Beck.

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Most viburnums grow well when planted in moist, rich and slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5 to 6.5). Incorporate organic soil conditioner at planting, so that the future root area of the planting bed contains 10 to 20 percent organic matter. Mulch the plants or bed with 4 to 6 inches of pine straw or 2 to 3 inches of bark. Plants should be spaced at least 4 to 10 feet apart, depending on the mature size of the cultivar.

As with most shrubs in the southeast, fall planting of viburnums is ideal. However, plants are often most readily available in nurseries at bloom time in the spring. Container grown plants can be planted at that time, but extra attention will need to be given to watering through the summer heat. Many viburnums flower best in full sun, but light preferences vary from full sun to mostly shade. Many species will tolerate summer heat better if planted where they receive afternoon shade or shade during the hottest part of the day. Once established in a suitable site, most viburnums have low maintenance needs. Deep soak even well-established plants during long dry spells. Periodically remove old and weak canes. The height and spread of most viburnums can be regulated with selective thinning pruning in early spring. If an overgrown plant needs to be renewal pruned, this should be done in the early spring. Some of the small-leafed evergreen viburnums can be sheared, but be aware that shearing will remove most flower buds and/or berries. To preserve flowers, wait to prune until just after bloom.

Although most viburnums are not seriously troubled by diseases or pests, several problems can occur, particularly when plants are stressed or in poor growing conditions. A variety of fungal leaf spots and a bacterial leaf spot are fairly common on viburnums. Aphids, thrips, spider mites, scale, root weevils and plant parasitic nematodes can be problems, also. For further information on problems on viburnums, refer to the fact sheet HGIC 2057, Viburnum Diseases & Insect Pests.

You would never know this so-called fern is really a very attractive member of the lily family. It doesn't mind hot, dry weather and is especially attractive when set out in a good pot. Photo by Peter Loewer.

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Many types of containers can be used for growing plants. Most pots with bottom drainage holes are made of plastic, ceramic or clay, whereas decorative containers without drainage holes may be made of clay, ceramic, plastic, wood, copper, brass and various other materials.

It is important to choose the correct size container for the plant. Containers too small or too large present an unbalanced appearance. An appropriate container should provide room for soil and roots, allow sufficient headroom for proper watering, and be attractive without competing with the plant.

Two methods for potting indoor plants are: (1) planting directly in the container and (2) placing a potted plant in another, more decorative container ("double-potting"). When plants are potted directly in the container, the container should have a drainage hole and a tray to catch the excess water. If the pot does not have a drainage hole, place a layer of coarse gravel in the bottom to allow a space for excess water (it is important not to saturate soil in such containers). The "double-potting" technique can be used with decorative containers with or without drainage holes. The smaller, interior pot should have a drainage hole. If the decorative pot does not have a drainage hole, place a layer of gravel in this pot, and place the potted plant on the gravel layer. No gravel layer is necessary if the decorative pot has a drainage hole. Be sure to place a tray beneath the pot to catch the excess water. Never place pots directly in contact with the carpet, floor or furniture as moisture can damage its surroundings.

Clay pots are porous and allow air movement through the sides of the pot. This allows the soil to dry and oxygen to reach the roots. Nonporous containers prevent water from evaporating through the sides, thus, plants require less frequent watering than those in clay pots.

Chinese Holly (Ilex cornuta)

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