Diervilla honeysuckle

Question

How do you plant this bush? How deep/wide the hole?

I realize they like full sun to light shade.

Answer 1

Let’s assume you are buying a shrub that is in a container. Dig the hole the same depth as the container but 2-3 times wider. After removing from the container, try to loosen the roots so they will grow outward. If it is horribly rootbound, slice through the superficial roots using 4 equidistant vertical cuts. Again try to loosen the roots. It may be necessary to cut a large X through roots at the bottom of the rootball. Roots that go around and around cause difficulties as they get larger. Try to get them to grow outward. Do not amend the soil unless it is extremely sandy or hard clay but add 2″ compost as a topdressing annually. Shrubs/trees need watering their entire first growing season. Water deeply once weekly or twice a week during drought/extreme heat.