Gmelin's Saltbush

The Acadian Saltbush should be watered once every week. Each watering should provide the soil with approximately ¼ – ½ inch of water. It is important to avoid over-watering, as well as overwatering the soil. To determine if the soil is too wet, simply touch the top layer of soil and if it can form a ball easily, it is too wet. If the soil is too dry, it will crumble or feel powdery. If the soil is damp, that is the optimal level of moisture. Additionally, to ensure the soil does not dry out quickly, mulching around the base of the plant is encouraged.

Acadian Saltbush is best suited for full sun and will derive a minimum of 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth. It is important to note that this species is somewhat tolerant of partial shade, but extended periods of shade or cloud cover may compromise the overall health of the plant. Planting Acadian Saltbush in an area with a good amount of sunlight exposure is recommended.

Acadian Saltbush (Atriplex glabriuscula var. acadiensis) is best pruned in the late fall or early spring before new growth begins. The amount of pruning to do on this species depends largely on the desired size of the shrub. To maintain its tidy appearance, it is recommended to prune lightly once a year in late winter or very early spring by cutting back the new shoots to a third of their size using hand pruners. Doing this will result in a more compact shrub, control its size and shape, and encourage new growth. However, it is important to both prune judiciously and not cut away too much of the new growth, as this can weaken the plant and leave it vulnerable to pests and disease.