Kalmia microphylla typically starts flowering in May.
western bog laurel
Kalmia microphylla
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Frequent
Propagation:
Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
2
Flowers:
Pink, Purple Flowers In Spring
Sun:
Full sun, Part sun/part shade
Soil:
Acidic, Bog
Fruits:
red Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Poisonous To Pets:
Yes
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Western bog laurel typically grows best with regular waterings. Water it deeply 1-2 times a week during its peak growing season, which is typically in spring and summer. Reduce watering during the cooler, dormant months, such as fall and winter. In these months, soaking the soil once a month should be sufficient. It is better to err on the side of less, rather than more, water, as overwatering can lead to root death and root rot. Monitor moisture levels of the soil to ensure plants don't become overly dry or too wet. If the top 3-5 inches of the soil is dry, it's time to water the western bog laurel.
sunlight
Western bog laurel prefers full sun to partial shade conditions, and can tolerate some woodland shade. It should be planted in a moist but well-drained soil, and should be watered regularly during dry periods. It prefers at least 4 hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day for optimal growth and flowering. Sunlight in the early morning followed by shade during the hottest parts of the day is the ideal condition for Western bog laurel to thrive.
pruning
Western Bog Laurel should be pruned twice a year, once in early spring (April or May) and once in late summer (August or September) to maintain its shape and encourage a bushy growth. Pruning should be done by removing 1-third of the oldest stems at the base of the plant and cutting back everything else to 3-4 inches from the ground. This technique will help to promote fuller growth and maintain the desired size and shape of the plant. It is important to avoid pruning late in the season as this can encourage late flowering, which can be detrimental to the plant's health. It is also important to not prune away too much of the plant, as this can lead to over-pruning and damage the plant.
Season
Kalmia microphylla is typically harvested in the months of June and July.