In this guide you will learn what to consider when planting the plume bush and what the plant needs from the soil.
There are many plants and types of plants that can inspire hobby gardeners and nature lovers again and again - either through their growth, appealing or even rare properties, or their blooms at certain times of the year. The plume bush (Fothergilla) is also one of those shrubs that are characterized by a real spectacle of colors and flowers when summer approaches. The shrub, which appears almost feathery at this time, also beguiles with a delicate scent that not only attracts butterflies, but also bees and other insects - which is the main reason for many gardeners to plant the shrub at all. Below we describe how to plant the plume shrub correctly and what conditions are ideal for it.The plume bush - always something special
If you want to plant a plume bush, you should know that it belongs to the witch hazel family and that there are two subspecies of the plant: namely the large plume bush (Fothergilla major) and the so-called small, alder-leaved plume bush (Fothergilla gardenii). The plume shrub is native to North America and both subspecies are known for being deciduous. The shrubs usually bloom in May in delicate tones, with the flowers later being replaced by capsule fruits that appear feathery and make the plume shrub even more interesting. As autumn approaches, the color spectrum transforms into a scheme of reds, browns and purples that many lovers of the plant love.
It is generally important to know that you should not expect rapid growth with the plume bush - because the plant takes its time and - in the case of the large plume bush - grows up to two meters high. Also in width, such a shrub can reach up to two meters, which makes shaping and pruning very easy. If you get the alder-leaved plume bush, you can expect a slightly lower and denser representative. Below are all the important needs aroundPlanting the plume bush at a glance:
- Situation should be sunny, but still protect from strong midday heat and drought
- Soil containing humus is preferred, can be enriched with peat and plant substrate when planting
- The soil must be loosened before planting
- Planting hole should be twice the size of the root ball
- plentiful watering necessary
Attract insects with the plume bush
Once the plume bush has developed its spike-like flowers, a delicate but persistent scent is perceived that attracts masses of insects. The flowers are particularly popular with butterflies and bees because they spread a honeyed scent that can be felt throughout the garden. When it has reached its full size, the flowers and the appealing scent are particularly intense for both the insect and the owner.
Suitable location for the plume bush
When it comes to location, the plume bush has some requirements. The feather bush shrub needs enough sun to produce its blooms and autumn color variety, but its location must not have too much sun, drought and heat - this affects the shrub very badly. A semi-shady place in the garden is therefore the better choice, so that sufficient cool shade can be provided on very hot days. The heat of the midday sun in particular should be avoided with this plant as far as possible. At the same time, it is also worth protecting the plume bush not only because of the partial shade, but also because of other weather conditions: rain, hail and wind, as well as frost can damage the finer branches of the bush, but also make its leaves look ugly.
Ground Requirements
A humus rich soil is preferred by the plume shrub of any species - this is usually found at the edge of a forest or near many trees. A somewhat sandy and loamy soil also benefits the shrub. When looking for the ideal soil pH, it should be between 6.5 and 7.5. The soil can be enriched with peat when planting to support the plume bush in its growth. With a plant substrate you can always give the plume bush a little help when it comes to growth.
How to plant the plume bush
If you can get hold of a plume bush young plant in a specialist shop or online, it should be planted in spring or autumn. If, on the other hand, you want to grow it from seeds, you should do so in autumnbe done with a germination box - by next spring the young plant is usually strong enough to be planted in a larger pot and brought outside when the weather is good. However, it takes about two years before a young plant that has been grown can hibernate outdoors.
If you decide on a strong young plant, it can be planted in spring. For this purpose, the soil should be loosened a little beforehand in order to create optimal water and nutrient permeability. Before planting, also get a picture of the root ball of the plant: If this is already quite large and robust, the planting hole should be at least twice as large in diameter and depth. Now the excavated soil can be enriched with some peat and plant substrate so that the young tree feels as comfortable as possible immediately after planting and can grow.
Water immediately after planting, but waterlogging should be avoided at all costs - therefore, the earth should not be trampled down too much in order to maintain good permeability. Regular watering is essential for the young plume bush, especially impending heat waves and dry periods should be prevented with plenty of water. Fertilizers can be used for rhododendrons every year in spring, and the shrub also tolerates fertilizers in summer. Once the plume bush is fully grown, annual fertilization and a little compost throughout the summer is sufficient.
By the way: The plume bush can also be planted in a medium-sized container if you want to keep it on the terrace or balcony. If the amount of sunlight is optimal, it also develops its full splendor here. In order to be able to plant the plume bush in a bucket, however, humus and peat-containing plant substrate is required, which can also be enriched accordingly if necessary. Rhododendron soil is also ideal.