Mohave Pyracantha (Firethorn) Shrub

1. Planting: First, select an area with full sun (6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day) and well-drained soil. Pyracantha Shrubs grow in most soil types but prefer moist, well-drained conditions.

When you're ready to plant, dig a hole that's large enough to accommodate the shrub's root ball (with some extra width to make room for mature growth), place your shrub and backfill the soil. We recommend watering to settle the roots and mulching to conserve moisture.

2. Watering: Occasional deep watering from early spring to late fall with 1 inch of water per week or more during hot, dry periods of weather provides enough moisture for the shrub. Use a garden hose and water at the soil level.

If you're not sure when to water, check the soil with your index finger, about 3 inches down. If the soil is dry, water until it's moist. Stop watering during the winter months.

3. Fertilizing: Annual fertilization when new growth begins in late winter can help boost the growth of your Pyracantha. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer such as 8-8-8 or 10-10-10 at a rate of 1 tablespoon per foot of height is sufficient for each plant.

4. Pruning: Prune Pyracantha during the spring after it finishes blooming. Remove any dead or diseased wood at its point of origin. To maintain shape, select wayward or leggy side shoots and cut them back to the first three leaves or cluster of berries. Remove lower branches for a treelike form or leave them in place for a more natural shape. The Pyracantha has sharp thorns, so wear thick gloves while pruning to avoid injuries.