For example, partial shade can be behind your house. The area be sunny in the morning, but get covered by the house’s shadow later on. Full shade areas, such as those under larger plants, get less than three hours of direct sunlight a day. A few varieties, such as arrowwood, may survive in low shade, but sunny or partially shaded areas are ideal.
Viburnums are hardy, so some may still grow in slightly alkaline soil.
Thinking what the viburnum will look like at maturity will give you a guideline on how much space you need. The plant will grow thick and tall with green leaves covered by flower clusters.
Viburnum can be grown above ground in a pot. Choose smaller varieties, like the European cranberry bush, that fit in well-draining containers. Be prepared to water the plant more often. Viburnum cuttings can be planted. Place them cut-down in a container filled with half peat and half sand. Cover the container, place it in indirect sunlight, and keep the soil moist. Seeds can be grown, but are much more difficult. They take several years to sprout and grow, leaving the seed vulnerable to the environment.
You may also amend poor soil with a layer of compost at the bottom of the hole. This will provide the plant with nutrients as it grows.
Try not to leave any water on the blooms and leaves because this may lead to mildew.
You can also add compost again in summer and fall. You won’t need to apply compost more than once a year, but extra composting provides extra nutrients.
It’s important to avoid placing the mulch up against the plant. Since the mulch helps absorb water, it can cause your plant to get damp and rot.
Potted viburnum requires more observation. You may have to water them once or twice a day in hot weather. Check the soil to make sure you don’t add too much water. Use your judgment when watering the viburnum. If the soil seems too dry, water it.
Every third year, you may slim the plant to a third or half of its size. This rejuvenation pruning leads to denser growth.
These problems occur because of too much water. Keep the viburnum away from other plants so air circulates around it. Trim off any diseased leaves and throw them away. Ensuring that your plant gets plenty of sunlight during the day will also help to prevent diseases.
Make sure viburnum is well-watered, but also planted in well-draining, fertilized soil. This stops root rot in its tracks. If your plant’s root system becomes infected, then you will need to remove and destroy the whole plant including the roots. Otherwise the infection will spread. Make sure to sterilize your cutting tools by applying rubbing alcohol to them before and after using them.
Clear out any weeds and fallen leaves beneath the viburnum to help limit infestations. Keep in mind that you may also be able to remove pests using a strong stream of water or by picking them off with your hands.
