witch hazel

Witch hazel prefers moist, but not wet, soil. Water your witch hazel deeply but infrequently, providing 1 to 2 inches of water once a week during periods of prolonged drought. Water in the morning so the leaves can dry out during the day, to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Give your plant an occasional deep soaking instead of multiple light waterings. As the plant matures, it becomes more drought-tolerant and may only need occasional supplemental watering during dry spells. Always check the soil before watering. If the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, it's time to water.

Witch hazel (Hamamelis intermedia 'Heinrich Bruns') grows best with bright, indirect sunlight. This means it should be placed in an area where it receives several hours of sunshine per day filtered through other trees or shrubs, or a sheer curtain, rather than direct sunlight. It should also be sheltered from cold winter winds and frosts. Planting your witch hazel in a south or east-facing position is ideal for maintaining the desired amount and quality of sunlight. As an added benefit, this orientation also has the best access to rainfall in many areas. When grown in these conditions, expect your witch hazel to receive up to 6 hours of sunlight daily.

Witch hazel (Hamamelis intermedia 'Heinrich Bruns') should be pruned in early spring, before the new growth appears. Pruning can be done either before or after flowering, but before flowering is preferable in order to ensure enough time for any pruning wounds and new growth to mature by the time winter arrives. When pruning, aim to selectively remove dead, broken, and diseased branches and thin out any densely congested areas. Keep in mind that this plant is known for its tied bark and crooked branching habit; therefore, try to keep the natural shape of the plant intact rather than creating a formal look. Generally, no more than 1/3 of the plant material should be removed. Witch hazel requires very little pruning over its lifetime; a slight pruning every couple of years is usually sufficient. Signs of failing health, such as declining flower production, can indicate the need for a more substantial pruning.