Species meadowsweet Guide

meadowsweet

Spiraea alba

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Cutting,Layering Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 7

Flowers:

White Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Soil:

Sandy Clay Rocky

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Meadowsweet requires frequent, moderate watering. Water regularly but allow the soil to almost completely dry out between watering. During the growing season, water about 1-2 times a week, making sure to moisten the entire root ball. In the winter, water less often, only providing enough water to keep the soil from becoming totally dry. Trickle watering for about 10-15 minutes is best. Meadowsweet does not like to sit in water, so be sure the pot or garden bed drains quickly and does not become waterlogged.

sunlight

Meadowsweet (Spiraea alba) plants require about 4-6 hours of direct sunlight a day to thrive and grow. It is best for the plant to receive full sun in the morning, up to mid-day, and then some shade during the hottest part of the day. Meadowsweet should not be over-exposed to too much direct sunlight as it can damage the leaves. It also prefers some morning dew and afternoon humidity as an addition to its water supply. If planted in cooler climates, it should still receive full sun for at least 6 hours a day for optimal growth.

pruning

Meadowsweet (Spiraea alba) is an attractive, easy to grow flowering shrub that requires light pruning to maintain its shape. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, before new growth starts in the spring. Remove dead wood from the center of the shrub, as well as any dead or damaged branches. Cut back any stems that have grown too long, crossing over other branches. Generally, aim for a basic oval or bowl shape, with an even distribution of branches all the way around. Prune back hardy stems by up to 2-thirds their length, if needed. Focus on removing new growth to the desired shape, as opposed to cutting away older growth. When pruning, take caution to use sharp, clean tools and sanitize them between each cut. Additionally, take any dead wood, pruned pieces or debris away from the shrub to prevent disease. With a bit of pruning each season, your meadowsweet will remain healthy and remain a beautiful addition to your garden.