witch hazel

Witch hazel (Hamamelis intermedia 'Sunburst') should be watered on a regular basis to keep the soil moist but not soggy. During the growing season, water the plant thoroughly every 7-10 days. During summer, water deeply once per week to keep the soil moist but not saturated. In autumn and winter, water less often, allowing the soil to dry out before watering again. As a rule, only water when the top inch of soil is dry. It's best to water in the morning to give the plant time to dry before nighttime.

Witch hazel plants must receive at least 4 hours of sunlight daily for optimal growth. To achieve this, it is suggested that 'Sunburst' Witch Hazels should be placed in direct sunlight for 4 to 6 hours a day, preferably in the late morning or afternoon when the sun is not at its hottest. Additionally, when grown outdoors in the summer, it is important to provide some afternoon shade. When grown indoors, near a window is the best option, again with filtered light to avoid too much direct sun. It is also important to note that with this particular species, any extended period of direct sunlight in the winter months should be avoided.

Witch hazel (Hamamelis intermedia 'Sunburst') should be pruned during its dormancy in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. This time of year will allow the shrub to establish new growth before it becomes too hot. Prune off any dead or damaged branches, and then shape the shrub as desired, removing some of the old growth to encourage new, thick growth. Witch hazel should not be pruned too much, however, as too much pruning can lead to a decrease in blooms the following year. Therefore, aim to prune no more than 1/3 of the total branches.