Weigela bushes typically have beautiful pink or white flowers that bloom profusely in early spring, and again in late summer. The trumpet-like flowers are very attractive to hummingbirds. The bushes typically grow to a height of 1 to 6 feet tall, and similar width. Our most popular shrubs are the dwarf variety and only get 1-2 feet tall. We mainly sell weigela florida, which is a species native to North China, Korea and Japan. These are non-invasive in the United States.
Weigela is a genus of between six and 38 species of deciduous shrubs in the family Caprifoliaceae. The genus is named after the German scientist Christian Ehrenfried Weigel. Weigela grows in USDA zones 4-8. Planted in full sun, gardeners plant Weigela to add color to a landscape, as a border, mass planting, or as a cut flower.
Planting Weigela
New shrubs should be planted in the spring or fall, when the weather is not so hot. Choose a site that gets at least 8 hours of sun each day. Weiglas bushes can tolerate many soil conditions as long as it is moist and well drained. With so many sizes and colors to choose from, follow the spacing guide on the container.
Make sure that the shrub has space to spread to its mature size so it does not crowd out other plants. Prepare a hole that is the same depth as the plant's root ball and at least twice as wide. Cover with soil leaving the stem and some of the root ball exposed. Water well after planting.
Watering Weigela
Weigela bushes will need deep watering until they are well established. Once mature, this shrub should get all the moisture it needs from rainfall. Weigela prefers moist, well-drained soil. They do not like soggy conditions, which can result in root rot. It is best to not over water them. A two inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant will help to retain moisture in the soil.
Fertilizing Weigela
Weigelas are generally light feeders, but will benefit from fertilization. Fertilize your bush once a year in the spring, just before new growth appears. Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer sprinkled around the root zone. Spread fertilizer evenly around each shrub, 6 inches from the trunk, and then 6 inches beyond the branch perimeter for every 2 feet in plant height. Weigela bushes come in many sizes, so it is best to follow the packaging guidelines on how much fertilizer to use. Water well after application.
Pruning Weigela
During spring, before the plant begins to leaf out, is a good time to remove any dead branches. Weigela is a spring blooming shrub. The best time to prune this plant is right after the shrub is done flowering, usually late spring. This will promote vigorous growth and help flower buds for the next season.
This plant can also be trimmed to control its shape and size. Cut each branch back by one third where two branches meet. Weigelas bloom on new wood. It is also a good idea to rejuvenate the plant by trimming off old wood every couple of years.
Caring For Weigela in Pots
Weigelas can be successfully grown in containers. Make sure that the bush you purchase is a dwarf variety. Weigelas prefer moist, well drained soil. The container you choose should have drainage holes. This plant does not like wet feet or soggy roots which can result in root rot. Place the container in a location that will get full sun each day. Water the plant regularly.
Winter Care for Weigela
Weigela are cold-tolerant and grow in USDA plant hardiness zones 4-8. Fall is the time to prepare your bush for winter. Moist soil also tends to stay warm longer than dry soil, so watering through fall helps keep the roots warm as the temperature falls. Adding a 2-3 inch layer of mulch to the base of the bush will help to insulate the soil and root system.
Weigela is prone to winter dieback. At the end of winter, check the plant for any broken or dead stems and do a light pruning if needed.
Plants We Recommend
Common Weigela Care Questions
Is Weigela Invasive?
Weigela is not considered an invasive species and does not appear on any state or national invasive species list.
What Is The Growth Rate For Weigela?
Weigela has a relatively moderate growth rate and can grow annually from 1 to 2 feet. Of course, as with any plant, this is dependent on a variety of factors (soil quality, watering, climate, etc.)
Why Does Weigela Leave Turning Brown And Yellow?
The leaves of a weigela may turn yellow or brown and drop earlier than they should because of the leaf spots. Trim the center of the bush to allow for better air circulation and give it a few good shakes to loosen all the affected leaves and bring them to the ground for disposal. Placing some mulch around the base of the plant can help in preventing water from splashing up into the foliage, as well.
Are Weigela Evergreen?
Weigelas are deciduous shrubs, meaning they lose their leaves during the autumn and winter months with fresh new leaves appearing in the spring.
When Does Weigela Growth Emerge?
Weigela begins to emerge in very early spring and throws an abundance of flowers in early spring and then blooms again in late summer if the initial blooms are deadheaded once they've faded away.
When Do Weigela Bloom?
Weigela is a prolific bloomer in early spring and deadheading the spent blooms can encourage them to bloom again in late summer.
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Author Chris Link - Published 07-02-2021 |