Bristly Sarsaparilla

Bristly Sarsaparilla should be watered every 10-14 days during the summertime, and every 3-4 weeks during the winter. When you water, make sure to saturate the soil around the plant so that the soil is moist to a depth of about 8-10 inches. Allow the top inch of soil to dry before watering again. If the soil feels dry, give it a deep, thorough drink. If the soil stays consistently moist, try reducing the frequency of watering. If you are unsure if the plant is ready to be watered, check the soil moisture with your finger; if the top 2 inches of soil are dry, water the plant. Over water can be as damaging as under watering so keep an eye on your plant to make sure you don’t inadvertently underwater or overwater.

Bristly Sarsaparilla, or Aralia hispida, is a shade-loving plant species that is best grown in areas that receive partial to full shade throughout the growing season. It requires at least 4 hours of direct sunlight per day, which is best provided in the morning or late afternoon when the sun is less intense. When planting in a garden that gets full sun throughout the day, be sure to provide adequate shade by planting it near trees and bushes or using a shade cloth. Make sure to provide clear air circulation around the plant to prevent any warmth buildup that can scorch the foliage.

Bristly Sarsaparilla (Aralia hispida) plants should be pruned in the early spring or in the late winter in milder climates before any new growth begins. This plant should be lightly pruned to remove dead stems and branches. Only prune the outer and inner stems of the plant to create an open shape. If you prune too much, you may damage the plant. Pruning too much can create excessive growth, resulting in over-crowding and disease. In general, prune only up to 1 third of the total growth in the winter or early spring.