![]() ![]() Using insecticides to control Japanese beetles is usually ineffective, and more likely to destroy the abundance of beneficial insects attracted to the shrub than the beetles. Japanese beetles sometimes feed on butterfly bushes. It’s best to leave the caterpillars alone unless their feeding activity does substantial damage to the shrub. In most cases the damage is minimal and you will have to stand close to the shrub to notice it. The symptoms are yellowing leaves, and in severe cases, twig or stem dieback.Īny time you grow a plant that attracts butterflies, you can expect caterpillars. Planting the shrub in well-drained soil usually eliminates the chances of root rot. Problems with butterfly bushes include root rot and the occasional caterpillar. Butterfly bushes are usually hybrids, and the offspring probably won’t be as attractive as the parent plant. Don’t be tempted to transplant the seedlings into other parts of the garden. Young shrubs that are cut off at ground level may re-emerge, so remove the roots along with the top growth. The seedlings should be removed as soon as possible. When the pods mature and release their seeds, weedy young plants emerge. Seed pods develop when the flower clusters are left on the plant. In spring and summer, remove the spent flower clusters promptly. The most labor-intensive part of caring for butterfly bushes is deadheading. This is particularly important in cold climates where the roots need winter protection. Cover the root zone with a 2 to 4 inch (5-10 cm.) layer of mulch. Fertilize with a 2 inch (5 cm.) layer of compost over the root zone or scratch in some general-purpose fertilizer if you need to enrich the soil. The plants don’t need fertilization unless grown in poor soil. Water the shrub slowly and deeply during prolonged dry spells so that the soil absorbs the water deep into the root zone. How to Care for a Butterfly Bushīutterfly bush care is easy. Check with your local extension office prior to planting to ensure that the plant is permitted in your area. NOTE: Butterfly bush is considered an invasive plant in many regions. Butterfly bushes grow from 6 to 12 feet (2-4 m.) tall with a spread of 4 to 15 feet (1-4.5 m.). ![]() Although butterfly bushes tolerate severe pruning to maintain a smaller size, you can reduce the time you’ll spend pruning by planting it in a location with plenty of room for the plant to develop its natural size and shape. The plant tag will tell you the mature size of the cultivar you have chosen. When planted in good quality garden soil, a butterfly bush rarely needs fertilizer. Soil that is constantly wet encourages rot. Choose a sunny or partly shaded area where the soil is well-drained. Planting a butterfly bush in an optimum location minimizes the time you’ll spend on maintenance. ![]() Find out more about butterfly bush planting and care. These tough plants tolerate a variety of conditions and are hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 5 through 9. They bloom in spring and summer, but the naturally attractive shape of the shrub and evergreen foliage keep the bush interesting, even when it is not in bloom. Butterfly bushes ( Buddleia davidii) are grown for their long panicles of colorful flowers and their ability to attract butterflies and beneficial insects. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |