Viburnum Shrub

Viburnum shrub belongs to the genus Viburnum. There are more than 150 species of viburnum. These can be categorized into evergreen, semi-evergreen and deciduous woody shrubs. Several species are native to North America. These are flowering shrubs that are easy to grow and will make your garden smell like heaven during the spring season

If you are planning to grow viburnum in your garden, you must select a variety that will grow well in your region. Due to their adaptability and versatile nature, these have been used in landscaping. There are different varieties which can be used as shrub borders, hedges and screens and some can also be used as stand alone ornamental trees. As far as the blooms are concerned, you could find shades of white and pink. Besides the beautiful flowers that grow in dome-shaped clusters, these are also grown for their colorful fruits or berries. Some refer to these berries as ornamental fruits as they come in a wide range of colors.

Varieties of Viburnum

There are several varieties that can be used for landscaping. These fast growing hedges can be trimmed and given various shapes. Pink buds blossom into beautiful flower clusters that are snowball-shaped. Several Asian varieties produce a heavenly scent. Korean spice viburnum is a variety that is very popular due to its sweet fragrance. Cayuga, Compactum, Mohawk and Judd viburnum are other varieties that are fragrant. Some of its varieties are grown for their beautiful berries. Arrowwood produce attractive foliage and bluish berries that come in clusters. Tea Viburnum is a deciduous viburnum that grows into a somewhat vase-like shape. It is known for its beautiful dark blue-green foliage, snowy white flowers and vibrant reddish-orange berries.

How to Care for Viburnum

Conditions Required for Growth
This shrub is known for their adaptability. The ideal conditions required for its growth include well-drained soils, full sun and moderate watering. Don't despair if there isn't enough sunshine, viburnum will survive in partial shade also. As far as the quality of soil is concerned, moderately fertile soil with pH ranging from 5.6-6.6 works well for them, but these can even grow in alkaline soils.

Propagation
You could purchase viburnum from any nursery or garden center. You could also take a stem from a shrub and attach it to the ground using a U-shaped wire. Once it has rooted, you can replant it in your garden.

Pruning
Wondering how to prune a viburnum? Pruning is a very important aspect that must not be ignored. Getting rid of dead or diseased stems and branches is extremely important. Use pruning shears to remove these dead parts. Also prune the areas where stems are crossing over each other. Prune the branches after the blooms fade. Cut the oldest branches back at the crown, but always remember that you must never prune more than one-thirds of the bush.

Fertilizing
Apply a slow release fertilizer in the spring. You must also be careful about the diseases that can affect this shrub. If the leaves are getting discolored, you must check for aphids infestation. These pests generally attack the tender branches and flower clusters. If the growth of the plant seems to be stunted and foliage looks yellow, it could be caused due to nematodes. Southern root knot nematodes can also cause a great deal of damage. Leaf spot fungi can also cause blotches on the leaves. Make sure that you remove the diseased parts and use pest control methods to avoid such problems.

The vibrant colors and sweet fragrance of the flowers and berries makes this shrub a must-have for your garden. So, what are you waiting for? Let viburnum beautify your garden.