
New Jersey tea
Ceanothus americanus
Also Known As - Red RootCycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Minimum
Hardiness Zone:
4 - 8
Flowers:
White Flowers
Sun:
Sun, Partial Shade
Soil:
Sandy Loamy Rocky
Fruits:
Fruits Ready In Summer
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
New Jersey tea should be watered every 3-4 days during the summer and every 6-7 days throughout the rest of the year. It is important to water the plant deeply and slowly, ensuring the soil is thoroughly moistened. During the summer, the plant should be given 1 inch of water per week and ½ inch of water per week during the winter. It is important to not over water, as this can cause the plant’s leaves to yellow and the roots to rot.
sunlight
New Jersey tea (Ceanothus americanus) grows best in full sunlight and needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. For best results, direct sunlight should fall on the plant in the morning hours of the day, allowing it to catch the warmth of the sun and its rays before evening temperatures cool off. If grown in partial shade, the plant may not have enough energy to fully establish itself.
pruning
New Jersey tea (Ceanothus americanus) should be pruned in the summer, after the plant has finished flowering. Generally, only moderate pruning is required, with removal of no more than 1/3 of the shrub's total growth. Pruning should focus on removing dead or broken stems, as well as thinning out stems that are growing close together. This will allow for better air circulation and reduce the risk of disease or fungus. Avoid pruning dormant or newly planted shrubs until they have been established for at least a year.