wingnut

Wingnuts should be watered carefully. They prefer moist soil, but should not have their roots wet for long periods of time. Water them deeply once a week in the growing season, and always check the soil before you water: if the soil is dry to a depth of 3 to 4 inches, it’s time to water. In winter, water less frequently, only when the soil is completely dry. Over-watering can cause the roots to rot. Fertilize wingnuts in spring with a slow-release fertilizer and again in midsummer.

Wingnut plants require full to partial sunlight for optimal growth. During the summer months, Wingnuts need between 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight every day. In the cooler months, shorter exposure to light is beneficial, with 4 to 5 hours an ideal amount. Wingnuts will not tolerate shade for any period of time, and will become leggy if the sunlight is not sufficient. If the plant grows in a location that receives less light than the required amount, you will need to supplement the light with grow lights. The plant should receive direct light in the morning hours, as the afternoon light is typically too strong and can scorch the foliage.

Wingnuts should be pruned each year to help maintain desired shape and size while also controlling its spread. Pruning is best carried out in early spring, just as buds begin to swell. Remove any dead, weak, or broken branches by cutting them off cleanly at their point of origin. Also remove any vertical shoots to promote good branching habits. Thin crowded branches by 1/3 of their length, cutting each back to a lateral branch. Finally, prune the remainder of the branches to shape and reduce the overall size of the tree. Make sure that all cuts are clean and flush so that the wound can heal quickly.