The care information provided in this section represents the kind of practical advice is available for all the plants in this web site if you subscribe to the monthly customized newsletter Yardener’s Advisor.
Watering
Water newly planted young shrubs every few days while they are getting established, especially if there is no regular rainfall. Mature shrubs do not need supplemental watering unless there is a period of prolonged drought. During these times, thoroughly soak the soil around the shrub every week or so. Mulch shrubs to help retain soil moisture.
For more information see file on About Watering Equipment.
Fertilizing
After the shrub has been in place a year, sprinkle a handful or two of fertilizer on the soil under the shrub for the rain to soak in. Do this every fall.
For more information see file About Fertilizers.
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Mulching
Like most plants, ornamental shrubs benefit from a 2 to 3 inch layer of mulch on the soil over their root systems. Chopped leaves, wood chips, shredded bark or similar organic materials help keep the soil moist and the weeds down. Mulch also protects the weigela from possible injury by the lawn mower.
For more information see file on Using Mulch.
Pruning/Grooming
Weigelas require regular pruning for best success. In colder regions, tips of branches nipped by the cold should be pruned off in the spring. After the new shrub has been in place for two years, begin annual pruning to shape it. Prune for shape immediately after the blossoms are past, usually in July. Since the next year's flower buds will begin to form on old wood, cutting back new shoots by about 2/3 their length will encourage sturdy wood and numerous buds. Older shrubs that have been neglected show very woody branches and sparse flowers. Renovate them by cutting approximately 1/3 of the old thick stems back to ground level each year. It will take two years for young, new replacement stems to begin to bloom.
For more information see files on Pruning Shrubs and Choosing Pruning Tools.
Propagation
New young weigela plants are most easily acquired by means of stem cuttings. In June, July or August clip off a 4-inch length of tender new growth at the tip of a branch. Strip off the leaves at the bottom of the cutting and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. This is available at garden centers. Stick the cutting into a container of damp sand, peat moss mix or vermiculite. It will develop roots in a week or two. Once the root system is fairly established, transplant the seedling to a pot for maintenance indoors over the winter, or plant it in a sheltered site outdoors.
