Can Mock Orange Grow in Pots? A Complete Guide

Mock orange is a popular spring-flowering shrub known for its incredibly fragrant white blooms that resemble orange blossoms. Its sweet scent and showy flowers make it a favorite in many gardens. But did you know that mock orange can also thrive when grown in pots and containers?

In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about successfully growing mock orange in pots, from choosing the right container and soil to proper watering and fertilization.

Mock orange belongs to the Philadelphus genus and is native to parts of North America Central America Asia, and Europe. There are around 60 species in this genus. The common names “mock orange” and “sweet mock orange” come from its flowers that look like orange blossoms and have a lovely citrus fragrance.

These deciduous shrubs can grow anywhere from 1-6 meters tall. The leaves are bright green, opposite, simple, and have serrated edges. Mock orange is popular for its late spring to early summer blooming period, when it becomes covered in showy white flowers with four petals. The blooms appear above the foliage and measure 1-4 cm across.

Some species produce single flowers while others bear semi-double or fully double blossoms. Once the flowers fade, they produce small seed capsules.

Choosing the Right Container

The first step in successfully growing mock orange in a container is selecting an appropriate pot or planter. Here are some tips:

• Use a large container – At minimum choose a pot that is 24 inches wide or larger. This gives the roots ample room to grow. Mock orange has an upright arching form and can get quite large, so don’t skimp on container size.

• Pick a sturdy stable pot – Look for thick durable containers that won’t easily blow over in the wind. Terra cotta, ceramic, concrete, resin, and wood are all great options.

• Make sure it has drainage holes – Good drainage is crucial, so your container must have holes in the bottom to prevent waterlogging. Elevate the pot on pot feet or bricks to improve drainage.

• Use a frost-proof material – If you live in an area with cold winters, select a frost-resistant container that won’t easily crack in freezing temperatures.

• Match the style to your space – From classic terra cotta to modern metal planters, choose a pot style and color that fits your personal taste and decor.

The Best Soil for Mock Orange

Mock orange thrives in nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. Here is an ideal potting mix recipe:

• 1 part peat moss or coco coir – Helps retain moisture
• 1 part compost – Provides nutrients
• 1 part perlite or pumice – Improves drainage

You can also purchase a commercial potting mix formulated for shrubs and trees. Make sure it contains organic matter like compost as well as perlite or vermiculite to aerate the soil. The pH should be slightly acidic, around 5.5 to 6.5.

Caring for Mock Orange in Pots

Mock orange is easy to grow in containers with proper care. Here are the key things to provide:

Sunlight

• Place pots in a spot that receives full sun to partial shade. At least 6 hours of direct sun per day is best.

Water

• Check soil moisture frequently and water whenever the top few inches become dry.
• Avoid letting pots completely dry out. Consistent moisture is key.
• Adding a layer of mulch helps retain moisture.
• Water thoroughly until it drains from the pot’s bottom holes.

Fertilizer

• Feed every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
• Slow release pellets mixed into the soil work too.
• Fertilize less often in winter.

Pruning

• Prune immediately after flowering by removing 1/3 of the oldest stems.
• Pruning encourages bushy new growth.
• Also remove any dead or damaged branches.

Temperature

• Move pots to a protected spot if temperatures drop below 10°F.
• Can be left outside year-round in zones 7-9.

Overwintering Mock Orange in Pots

In zones 4-6, mock orange will need some extra protection in winter since it is dormant and vulnerable to damage. Here are a few overwintering options:

• Move pots to an unheated garage or shed once temperatures drop below freezing. Check soil moisture every few weeks and water sparingly.

• Bury pots in the ground and mulch well with leaves or straw. Dig them up in spring.

• Wrap aboveground pots with insulating material like bubble wrap.

• Store in a cool greenhouse or cold frame.

• If left outside, push pots together and cover with burlap. Keep soil slightly moist.

Just before new growth emerges in spring, water thoroughly and move pots back outdoors. Resume normal care and fertilizing.

Troubleshooting Problems with Mock Orange

Mock orange is quite hardy when grown in containers, but occasionally may encounter problems. Here are some potential issues and solutions:

• Lack of flowers – This can be caused by too much shade, over-pruning, overfertilizing, or drought stress. Ensure proper sunlight, water, and only prune after flowering.

• Leaf spot diseases – Prevent by watering at the base of plants, not on leaves. Improve air circulation and treat with fungicides if needed.

• Aphids – These sap-sucking insects cause curled leaves and stunted growth. Knock them off with a strong spray of water or use insecticidal soap.

• Root rot – Overwatering leads to fungal rot diseases. Allow soil to dry between waterings and ensure container has drainage.

• Leggy growth – Promote bushier growth by pinching stem tips and fertilizing judiciously. Give plenty of sun.

Tips for Stunning Mock Orange Container Gardens

With proper care, mock orange makes a fabulous focal point in containers. Here are some design ideas:

• Plant a single mock orange in a large standalone pot on the patio or deck. Underplant with sweet alyssum or dichondra for a cascade effect.

• Place matching pots on either side of an entryway. Keep them neatly trimmed for symmetrical ball-shaped forms.

• Surround mock orange with smaller pots of colorful bloomers like coral bells, astilbe, and begonias.

• Partner with evergreen shrubs like boxwood for a striking color contrast.

• For multi-season interest, combine with bulbs that flower early like tulips or late bloomers such as mums.

• Match the container color to the mock orange flowers. Go for white, cream, or light green pots for a coordinated look.