If you’re looking to add a massive splash of color to your yard, you really can’t go wrong with a Weigela hedge. These shrubs aren’t just eye candy for us; they’re also a huge hit with pollinators like bees and hummingbirds. Ready to get growing? Here’s everything you need to know to plant a thriving, flower-filled Weigela hedge.
What to Consider Before You Plant
First things first: Weigelas are sun-worshippers. To get those iconic, heavy blooms, you’ll want to pick a spot with full sun. They can handle partial shade, but you’ll definitely see fewer flowers, and in full shade, they likely won’t bloom at all. If your soil is a bit heavy or compacted, don’t worry—just mix in some fine gravel or sand and a healthy dose of compost to give those roots the drainage and nutrients they crave.
Keep in mind that Weigelas aren’t meant for those perfectly manicured, boxy “formal” looks. They look their best when pruned informally, letting them keep their natural, flowing shape. Because of this loose growth habit and the fact that they drop their leaves in the winter, they might not provide a 100% solid privacy screen year-round. One pro tip: be careful when you trim! If you cut back too aggressively at the wrong time, you might accidentally snip off next year’s flower buds.
When is the Best Time to Plant?
Spring and fall are the “Goldilocks” seasons for planting—not too hot, not too cold. While you *can* plant them in the summer, the heat can be pretty stressful for new shrubs. If you go the summer route, just be prepared to give them a lot of extra TLC and water while they settle in.
How to Plant Your Weigela Hedge
Even when they’re living together in a hedge, Weigelas need their personal space. You can plant them a bit closer than you would a standalone shrub, but you still want to aim for about 3 to 5 feet apart, depending on whether you bought a dwarf variety or a large cultivar. Here’s how to get them in the ground:
- Dig a long trench where you want your hedge to go.
- Give the soil a good loosening up so the roots can spread easily.
- Space your plants out evenly along the trench.
- Fill the gaps with soil and give it a gentle pat down to remove air pockets.
- Give the whole row a deep, thorough watering.
Caring for Your Hedge
To keep your hedge looking lush, you’ll need to do more than just trim for size. Weigelas can actually get a bit “lazy” with their blooming if they aren’t pruned regularly to encourage new growth. Other than that, treat them like you would any prize shrub:
- Keep the soil consistently moist (a layer of mulch works wonders here!).
- Use a good fertilizer from early spring through the end of the blooming season.
- Give them a little extra winter protection during their very first year in the ground.
