The different types of viburnum bush have different requirements, but they are all considered relatively easy to care for. Many of them are hardy in our latitudes, they are all decorative, but also slightly poisonous for people and pets.
How do I properly care for my viburnum bush?
Viburnum care includes a sunny or partially shaded location, moist soil, regular watering and occasional fertilizing. Prune the shrub every 2-3 years and pay attention to the respective winter hardiness. Protect your snowball from lice and diseases.
The right location and the best soil
Plant your viburnum bush in a sunny to partially shaded location with moist soil. Most varieties feel comfortable there. However, some prefer a rather dry place and cannot tolerate waterlogging. It's best to look at the plant label or ask the gardener where your particular viburnum would thrive.
Water and fertilize the snowball
If the soil is nutrient-rich and well mulched, then your snowball doesn't need any fertilizer. You should support potted plants and vigorous viburnum bushes from time to time with a little liquid fertilizer in the water. Most viburnum species, on the other hand, need plenty of water, at least during the growing season and during the flowering period.
Pruning the snowball
The robust viburnum bush tolerates pruning quite well, but does not necessarily require it. However, some varieties will go bald on the ground if they are never cut. Therefore, you should cut back the old shoots of your snowball bush about every two to three years.
Diseases and pests in snowballs
Occasionally the aphid gives the snowball a lot of trouble. As a preventive measure, watering with a broth made from field horsetail and also a sunny location helps. He althy plants are less likely to be attacked by pests than weakened ones.
The viburnum bush in winter
Ideally, the gardener from whom you buy your viburnum will inform you about the shrub's frost tolerance. Because not all viburnum species are equally hardy. The laurel viburnum can only tolerate a little frost, while the common viburnum has no problems with it and does not need winter protection.
The most important care tips for the snowball:
- Location: sunny or partially shaded
- Soil: moist
- water a lot
- fertilize moderately
- cut back every 2 – 3 years
- more or less hardy
- sensitive to lice
Tip
Many viburnum species are hardy and like moist soil, but there are exceptions. Therefore, when purchasing special varieties, inquire about the correct care.
