silver buffaloberry

Silver buffaloberry typically grows in dry, sandy soil and requires regular watering during the growing season. The amount of water needed will depend on the soil type, climate, and how quickly it is drying out. In general, water the silver buffaloberry thoroughly once a week if the soil is dry. If the soil remains damp from the previous watering, wait for 3 days to water again. Make sure to water at the base of the plant and avoid wetting the leaves. Spread an organic mulch around the roots to help retain moisture. During periods of extreme heat and drought, you may need to water more frequently. It is best to water in the morning since the leaves have all night to dry before dusk. Avoid watering in the evenings as moisture left on the foliage overnight can encourage disease and encourage insects.

Silver buffaloberry (Shepherdia argentea) does best in full, direct sunlight. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth. During the peak of the summer season, silver buffaloberry can benefit from up to 8 hours of sunlight. During the winter months, the plant is dormant, and should receive only indirect sunlight, or light that is filtered through trees or other barriers. Too much light, even during the warmer months, can cause scorching of the leaves, reducing blooms and growth.

Silver buffaloberry should be pruned during the dormant season (October-March). Pruning should be done lightly, removing the oldest stems and branches and lightly shaping the shrub to its desired size and form. Young shrubs should be pruned to induce branching and produce a denser, more uniform shape. For mature shrubs that have stopped growing, light shearing is recommended. Take care to only remove dead, diseased, and crossing branches, removing no more than 1-third of the branches at a time. If more intensive pruning is needed, it should be done over several years.