A few shrubs truly, noticeably benefit from being trimmed. In this article, we’ll talk about plants that you should get around to pruning in the springtime. You’ll be rewarded with a beautiful view for months afterward.
These six shrubs are perfect for tucking into your regular garden or adding into your cut flower space to make it a bit more robust.
We’ve gathered a list of some of our most rugged plants. They’re prepared to brave a range of elements, including a bit of occasional neglect.
Make spring even sweeter with Sweet Emotion abelia! It’s not like any other abelia: hardy to USDA zone 4, with mid-spring flowers that give off the most intoxicating jasmine scent. Deep pink buds open to reveal white and pink flowers. They attract butterflies and make a very nice cut flower. In autumn, foliage turns a nice orange color. Grow this very special abelia as a hedge or specimen, or include it in your flower garden.
Why grow Sweet Emotion abelia?
| Dimensions | 5 × 5 ft |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Abelia mosanensis syn. Zabelia tyaihyonii 'SMNAMDS' PP#27,370 ; CBR#5937 |
| Zone | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 |
| Flower Color | White |
| Foliage Color | Green |
| Height | 5-6' |
| Width/Spread | 5-6' |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Part Shade |
| Soil | Average, Dry, Moist, Well-drained |
| Bloom Time | Spring |
| Uses | Borders, Foundations, Hedges, Specimen |
| Features | Alkaline soil, Attracts pollinators, Clay soil, Cut flower, Deer resistant, Fragrant |
| Blooms On | Old wood |
| Breeder | Tim Wood, Grand Haven, Michigan |
Light: Full sun (6+ hrs/day) is best, but can grow and bloom well in part sun (4-6 hrs sun/day).
Soil: Any average, well-drained soil will do.
Water: Average water needs. Some drought tolerance once established, but if it gets very dry during its bloom time, flowering will be compromised.
Fertilizing: Nothing special required. One application of a granular fertilizer formulated for shrubs is sufficient.
Pruning: Little needed; if desired, prune to shape immediately after flowering.
