Growing Guide: Fall & Winter Blooming Plants
Camellias
Camellias are evergreen shrubs or small trees known for their glossy, dark green leaves and large, showy flowers. They bloom in late fall through early spring, depending on the variety (e.g., Sasanquas).
Growing Tips and Care
Location: Plant camellias in well-drained, acidic soil with partial shade. They prefer protection from harsh afternoon sun and strong winds.
Watering: Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Avoid waterlogged soil as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilizing: Use a balanced, acid-loving plant fertilizer in spring and early summer.
Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead or diseased branches. Avoid heavy pruning as it can affect next year’s flower buds.
Pests and Diseases: Watch for aphids, scale insects, and camellia tea scale. Treat promptly if infestations occur.
Witch Hazels (Diane, Jelena, Arnold Promise)
Witch hazels are deciduous shrubs known for their fragrant, spidery-shaped flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring.
Growing Tips and Care
Location: Plant in well-drained soil in a location with full sun to light shade.
Watering: Witch hazels prefer consistently moist soil. Water deeply during dry spells.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
Pruning: Minimal pruning is needed. Remove dead foliage before bloom.
Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant to pests and diseases. Keep an eye out for aphids and spider mites.
Mahonias
Mahonias are evergreen shrubs known for their pinnately compound leaves and clusters of yellow flowers followed by dark blue-black berries (e.g., Charity, Soft Caress).
Growing Tips and Care
Location: Plant in well-drained soil in partial to full shade. They can tolerate a wide range of soil types.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead or crowded branches.
Pests and Diseases: Mahonias are generally resistant to pests and diseases.
Osmanthus
Osmanthus are evergreen shrubs or small trees known for their leathery, dark green leaves and fragrant, small, white flowers (e.g., San Jose, Sasaba).
Growing Tips and Care
Location: Plant in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Provide regular watering, especially during dry periods.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
Pruning: Prune to shape and remove dead or crowded branches in late winter or early spring.
Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant to pests and diseases.
Flowering Quince
Flowering quince is a deciduous shrub known for its early spring blooms of red, pink, or white flowers (e.g., Double Take Scarlet, Orange).
Growing Tips and Care
Location: Plant in well-drained soil in full sun. Flowering quince can tolerate a range of soil types.
Watering: Provide regular watering, especially during dry spells.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead or overcrowded branches.
Pests and Diseases: Watch for aphids and scale insects. Treat if infestations occur.
Helleborus (Lenten Rose)
Hellebores are winter blooming flowers in shades of pink, deep burgundy, deep blue and white. Flowers in single and double petal forms. Evergreen foliage from solid green to green with white veins or pink center splotches.
Growing Tips and Care
Location: Choose a location with partial to full shade. Hellebores thrive in woodland settings and under deciduous trees. Ensure well-draining soil rich in organic matter.
Watering: Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Avoid waterlogged conditions as hellebores prefer well-drained soil.
Fertilizing: Feed the hellebores in late winter or early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Use a slow-release fertilizer to avoid over-fertilization.
Pruning: Remove old, damaged, or yellowed leaves in late winter or early spring. Prune spent flowers to encourage new growth and prevent self-seeding.
Pests and Diseases: Keep an eye out for aphids and slugs. Hellebores are generally resistant to diseases, but proper sanitation helps prevent issues.
Heuchera (Coral Bells)
Heucheras bear evergreen foliage in a vast array of colors; lime green, deep paprika, dark purple to almost black. They have short stems of tiny pink or white flowers that appear per variety.
Growing Tips and Care
Location: Plant in spring or fall to allow the plant to establish before extreme temperatures. Plant Heuchera in partial shade to full sun, depending on the variety. Well-draining soil rich in organic matter is ideal.
Watering: Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Mulch around the plant to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing: Feed Heuchera in spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it can lead to weak growth.
Pruning: Trim back any damaged or dead leaves in early spring. Remove spent flower stems to encourage continuous blooming.
Pests and Diseases: Keep an eye out for aphids and spider mites. Ensure good air circulation to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Remember, while these tips provide general guidelines, individual plants may have specific needs
Always monitor your plants closely and adjust care as needed based on their condition. Happy gardening!