Japanese witch hazel

Japanese witch hazel should be watered once every 7 to 10 days. To determine the right amount of water, stick your finger in the soil and feel for moisture. If the top inch of the soil feels dry, then it's time to water. Water until the soil is saturated and the excess drains out the bottom of the pot. As a general rule, the soil should be kept consistently moist, but not soggy. If you water it too often, the plant may become waterlogged and rot. Reduce the amount of water in the winter months when the plant needs less.

Japanese witch hazel, also known as Hamamelis japonica 'Arborea', thrives best in medium amounts of direct sunlight. Ideally, it should receive 6-8 hours of sunlight in a day, though it can do well with as little as 3-4 hours. To ensure optimal health, the plant should be placed in an area where it can receive additional indirect light for the remainder of the day. Additionally, the Japanese witch hazel should not be exposed to midday direct sunlight, as this may scorch its leaves.

Japanese witch hazels should be pruned to control size and maintain shape. It is an early bloomer and should be pruned soon after flowering to maximize flowering in the following season. Prune again in June or July once the foliage has matured to keep the overall shape of the shrub and to prevent it from growing too large. Prune out dead and diseased wood at any time and prune branches that rub against each other or arc inward. Remove a third of the oldest branches at the base each year, as this will stimulate new growth and flower buds. If necessary, prune in late summer or early fall to reduce the size of the shrub or keep it within bounds.