Weigelas are some of the most reliable, low-maintenance flowering shrubs you can add to your garden. That said, if you want them to really thrive and put on a show, picking the right spot is key. Here’s the lowdown on what these beauties need to look their best.
Where is the best spot to plant a Weigela?
If you want a massive explosion of flowers, think sun, sun, and more sun! While Weigelas can handle a bit of partial shade, you’ll definitely notice fewer blooms if they aren’t getting enough light. In a full-shade spot, your Weigela might not bloom at all. So, when you’re planting your Weigela, make sure it’s in a bright, sunny location.
What kind of soil do Weigelas prefer?
To keep your shrub happy, aim for soil that hits these four marks:
- Nutrient-rich
- Consistently moist
- Full of organic matter (humus)
- Well-draining
These plants aren’t big fans of “wet feet” (standing water), but they don’t like bone-dry soil either. During those hot summer months, you’ll need to stay on top of watering. A good tip is to water more frequently with smaller amounts rather than drowning them once a week—this helps keep the moisture levels steady.
How can you prep the perfect home for your Weigela?
If your garden has heavy, compacted soil, try mixing in some sand or fine gravel to help with drainage. To keep those blooms coming, regular fertilizing is a must, especially during the blooming season when the plant is working overtime. Just remember to stop fertilizing once the flowers fade and wait until after winter to start again. Adding a nice layer of mulch around the base is also a game-changer for locking in soil moisture.
Planning to plant a Weigela hedge? Make sure the entire row gets plenty of sunlight and give them enough space so they aren’t crowding each other out. If you’re growing Weigela in containers, definitely add a drainage layer at the bottom of the pot to make sure excess water can escape easily.
