dwarf sumac

Dwarf sumac (Rhus copallinum var. latifolia) is a drought tolerant shrub that can thrive with minimal watering. In general, it should be watered deeply and infrequently when planted in the landscape. Generally, during the first summer after planting, water weekly and then reduce watering to about every 2 weeks. In the fall, as temperatures drop and the plant enters dormancy, reduce watering frequency to once a month throughout the winter. In the spring when new growth begins to emerge, water the plant weekly. During summer months, water when the soil is dry and administer deep waterings once a week.

Dwarf sumac (Rhus copallinum var. latifolia) typically require 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily to meet their photosynthetic and growth needs. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. During extremely hot summer days, it will appreciate a bit of afternoon shade to prevent sunburn. In the winter months, Dwarf sumac will appreciate some morning sunlight to keep it from becoming too leggy.

Dwarf sumac (Rhus copallinum var. latifolia) should be pruned in early spring before new growth begins. Start pruning by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. This process is called "deadheading" and is essential for keeping a healthy, attractive shrub. Prune back any stem that is growing too vigorously or exceeds the desired size of the shrub by cutting it at the desired height. Avoid cutting too much all at once; this can encourage a rash of weak new growth that is more prone to diseases and pests. Finally, if needed, thin out the shrub by cutting some of the thinner or weaker stems near the base of the bush. This will also help to ensure that the shrub has an attractive shape and size.