I Planted 3 Arrowwood Viburnum Shrubs In Early Summer. One Has A Lot Of New Growth (about 10 New Shoots) While The Other Two Don’

Question

t have any new growth. Should I be concerned or do anything differently? My soil has a lot of clay. We haven’t had much rain at all this summer, so I’ve been watering them all the same amount manually and have sprinkled Preen around them a few times. They get plenty of sun for 6+ hours/day.

Answer 1

I suspect that this is related to the same issue as your Spirea. Clay soil is notorious for being nutrient rich, but largely unavailable. If you can work some organic material in without disturbing all of your plants and shrubs, then this would be ideal. if not, then worms will be your best friends in this situation. I have the same problem in my area, and I solved the issue with these methods. Many of my projects from the mycology lab end up in the yard and garden, as well. Mushrooms and fungi are the BEST at remediating soil. (As long as you avoid putting certain ones out, such as Armillaria.)

These articles will offer some more information:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/vermicomposting

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/how-to-improve-clay-soil.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/organic/how-to-easily-improve-your-clay-soil.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/improving-compacted-soil.htm