may-apple

May-apples should be watered once every week. When you water them, you should water them until the soil is moderately moist. It is important to make sure that the soil does not become overly wet, as this could cause root rot. During the growing season, from late winter to early summer, you should water your may-apple more frequently. You should also be sure to water the plant thoroughly so that the water penetrates the root zone.

May-apple (Podophyllum peltatum f. deamii) should receive 2-4 hours of direct sunlight per day. This exact amount of sunlight can vary and depend on the location throughout the growing season. In hotter climates, more shade should be provided throughout the day, and in colder climates, more sun exposure can be beneficial. Generally speaking, a spot that receives partial sun, or morning sun is best. Too much direct sunlight can cause sunburn and scorch the leaves, while too little sunlight can lead to thin, weak growth.

May-apple generally requires little pruning. Any pruning should be done in late winter and early spring when the plant is dormant. Remove any dead, diseased, or overcrowded stems. To control the spread of the May-apple, remove the rootlets starting at the edge of the patch. By removing any flowers and unripe fruit that appears in mid to late summer, you can help to keep the plant from reseeding itself and spreading throughout your garden.