Potentilla is a flowering perennial that boasts delicate semi-double blooms with petals that almost resemble tissue paper and surround bold yellow stamens. Most varieties of Potentilla fruticosa are cold-hardy in USDA zones 2 through 8. This plant is native to North America. This plant is drought-tolerant and able to handle challenging conditions, like salt either from a coastal location or due to winter de-icing, but hot summer weather may cause the flowers to fade slightly. Planting Potentilla correctly will ensure your plants are healthy and covered in flowers throughout the summer.
What You Need To Plant Potentilla
- Shovel
- Compost or manure
- Garden spade
- Good location
Where to Plant Potentilla
Select an area that receives partial to full sun. Potentilla plants need at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight to thrive and will benefit from morning sun and afternoon shade when grown in regions with hot summers. While this plant needs sun, very warm conditions can be a bit much, so afternoon shade can be beneficial. Soil should be rich, well-drained, and have a pH between 5 and 7.
Potentilla Spacing
These upright, mounded plants don’t need much room and generally stay within a 2- to 3-foot area. Space plants about 2 to 4 feet from the center of one to a neighboring plant or building so that air can circulate around the greenery.
Steps To Plant Potentilla
When planting Potentilla, choose a good location and dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball. Amend the soil with organic compost or manure to support continued growth. Position the plant in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the ground, and backfill the hole. New plants need water weekly during the first growing season. Established plants typically need water every other week or when the top several inches of soil are dry.
Step 1 - Select an appropriate location
Step 2 - Dig a hole slightly wider and deeper than the root ball
Step 3 - Enrich the soil with organic compost or manure
Step 4 - Position the root ball in the hole
Step 5 - Backfill the hole with soil and firmly press the ground into place
Step 6 - Place mulch on top of the root ball and water deeply
When to Plant Potentilla
Spring is generally the best time for planting, and Potentilla is no exception. Wait until the weather is consistently above 50 degrees before planting. When possible, plant during the morning and water right away.
Transplanting Potentilla
As a perennial, there may come a time you may want to move your Potentilla from one spot to another. Spring is the best time to transplant Potentilla. Moving plants in the spring will give the Potentilla plenty of time to acclimate before winter. Wait until the temperature is consistently warm and there is no longer a chance of frost. Dig up the entire root ball and replant it in a new location. Growing from cuttings is a way to expand your collection of Potentilla.
 |
Author Alison Cotsonas - Published 07-12-2022 |