Proven Winners® Scentlandia Sweetspire Shrub

1. Planting: Plant or repot within 4 weeks of arrival. Choose a spot that receives full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and fragrance. Virginia Sweetspire can also tolerate full shade, though flowering may be reduced. Consider planting in an area where it has room to sucker and naturalize. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Gently place the shrub in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill with soil, water thoroughly to settle the roots, and apply a layer of mulch around the plant to help conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

2. Watering: Water regularly during the first year to establish a strong root system. Once established, this shrub is moderately drought-tolerant but appreciates consistent moisture, especially during hot, dry periods.

3. Pruning: Virginia Sweetspire blooms on old wood, so prune immediately after flowering. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches as needed. If you do not want the shrub to naturalize, remove suckers regularly to keep it contained.

4. Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or work fresh compost into the soil in early spring to encourage healthy growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce blooming.