Would you like to plant a flannel bush? Whether in a bucket or as an outdoor plant - it doesn't matter. It is important that you create the right conditions for the plant.
The flannel bush is native to North and Central America. It is a real eye-catcher with its large, bright yellow flowers that look like they have been varnished. It has dark green, leathery leaves that are hairy on the underside.
The shrub can now also be seen more and more often in our latitudes. It doesn't matter whether the shrub is planted outdoors or grows in a bucket. It is important that the right conditions are created for the crop.
» Caution: Before you get started - the hairs on the underside of the leaves cause skin irritation. Therefore, always wear gloves and long-sleeved clothing to avoid unpleasant surprises when you come into contact with the plant.
➜ Plant a flannel bush in a pot
✛ Bottom:
The shrub likes sandy to rocky soil. It is therefore best to combine potting soil with sand and small stones. Make sure the tub is at least twice the size of the root ball.
✛ Casting:
Before planting the root ball, you must water it well. Then fill up with soil, press on the substrate and water it. Later water only moderately, the flannel bush tolerates drought for a short time. However, the root ball should not dry out. You can prevent waterlogging with drainage at the bottom of the bucket. Which water you use, whether rainwater or drinking water, is up to you. The plant is not sensitive to lime. However, if possible, make sure to use stale water to avoid the cold shock.
More care tips
Flannel shrubs in tubs stay relatively small. They fit on the terrace or the balcony, on the roof garden or in the conservatory. The main flowering period is from May to July/August, but the flannel shrub often produces flowers well into October. To ensure that it develops well and branches out beautifully, pinch off the shoot tips of young specimensseveral times a year. Of course always with gloves! Do not prune older bushes, otherwise the flowers will suffer. Liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the budding and flowering phase promotes flower formation.
➜ Planting a flannel bush in the garden
✛ Climate conditions:
If you live in an area with a very mild climate, for example in a wine-growing region, you can try the flannel plant outdoors. Full sun, wind protection and preferably also protection from too much rain offer ideal conditions. The shrub is hardy to -10° C.
✛ soil and watering:
A sandy, well-drained soil is best. Place the flannel bush with the watered root ball in a planting hole that is about twice as deep and wide as the ball. Fill with soil, press down well and water. In the first few weeks after planting, water regularly, depending on the temperature/soil dryness in the summer months, so that the shrub does not dry out, but is also not flooded.
In favorable locations, the flannel shrub can grow up to several meters high. In the field it occasionally tends to shed leaves, but usually recovers quickly.