winter hazel

Winter hazel should be watered regularly, about once a week with plenty of water. It is a quite drought tolerant species, but extra water is needed in hotter climates. Immediately after planting it is best to water it more frequently, for example every other day for the first few weeks. Soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, so avoid over watering. In the colder months, you may need to reduce watering slightly to accommodate cooler temperatures.

Winter hazel (Corylopsis glabrescens var. gotoana) prefers part-shade to full sun, but can tolerate full sun if planted in a well-draining soil with plenty of moisture. Generally, it will do best in light shade, particularly during mid-day when the sun is strongest. In terms of exposure, an east, west, or north facing location is optimal. Too much sunlight can cause the leaves to scorch, so it is best to err on the side of caution. When planted in a suitable location, winter hazel should receive at least 4 hours of direct sunlight, with 6-8 hours being ideal.

Winter hazel (Corylopsis glabrescens var. gotoana) should be pruned in the late winter/early spring before the new growth starts. Pruning should be minimal, consisting of removing any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Clean up any broken branches and dead leaves after pruning by cutting them off at the base. Prune away any overcrowded branches, leaving a few of the thicker branches for stability. Try to maintain the natural shape of the shrub. Thin out the middle of the plant to promote air flow and ensure adequate sunlight access. Any shoots coming up from the base should be pruned away. Pruning should be limited to light shaping and tidying, not to limit the size or shape of the plant.