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Viburnum is a versatile shrub that is very popular in hedges and borders. Depending on the variety, it is usually evergreen and often changes color in the fall, and it produces brightly colored berries that often last through the winter. Best of all, in the spring it is completely overrun with highly fragrant tiny flowers. It is really a plant for all seasons that never fails to disappoint. Can you grow viburnum plants in pots though? Keep reading to learn more about growing viburnum in containers and caring for potted viburnum shrubs.
Is container grown viburnums feasible? Yes, as long as you know what you’re getting into. Viburnums are sometimes called large shrubs and sometimes called small trees. In fact, some varieties can grow up to 30 feet (9 m.) in height, which is awfully big for a container plant. When growing viburnum in containers, it’s best to pick a small variety that will be more manageable.
Growing arrowwood viburnum (Viburnum dentatum) in a container is an excellent way to enjoy the beauty and versatility of this shrub even if you have limited garden space With the right care, these ornamental shrubs can thrive in pots, allowing you to highlight their lush green foliage, fragrant spring blooms, and fall berries on a patio or balcony This comprehensive guide will provide tips for successfully cultivating arrowwood viburnums in pots.
Choosing the Right Pot
Selecting an appropriate container is the first step towards growing healthy arrowwood viburnums. Opt for a pot that is at least 18-24 inches wide and has adequate drainage holes at the bottom. The large size will give the roots room to spread out and grow. Drainage is crucial to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Clay, ceramic, plastic, and weather-resistant wood are suitable pot materials. Match the pot color and style to your outdoor décor. Place a saucer under the pot if keeping it on a deck or patio.
The Perfect Potting Mix
Arrowwood viburnums thrive in slightly acidic, well-draining soil. Prepare a potting mix by combining:
- 2 parts potting soil
- 1 part peat moss for acidity and moisture retention
- 1 part compost for organic matter
You can also amend regular potting mix with some acidic fertilizer like cottonseed meal or sulfur to lower the pH Avoid dense, heavy potting mixes that retain too much moisture
Planting the Shrub
Spring is the ideal time to plant your arrowwood viburnum in a container. Follow these steps:
- Fill the pot halfway with prepared potting soil.
- Remove the shrub from its nursery pot, loosen tangled roots, and place it in the center of your container.
- Fill remaining space with more potting mix. Tap the pot gently to settle the soil.
- Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom drainage holes.
Make sure the root ball sits an inch below the pot rim. This leaves space for watering.
Caring for Potted Arrowwood Viburnums
Sunlight
Place the potted shrub in a spot receiving at least 6 hours of direct sun daily for abundant blooms. Light shade in afternoons is recommended for very hot climates.
Watering
Check soil moisture regularly, especially in summer. Water whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering that can lead to root rot.
Fertilizing
Feed every spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or compost to encourage growth and flowering. Always follow product instructions.
Pruning
Trim dead branches in late winter. Lightly shape and thin overgrown arrowwood viburnums after flowering. This stimulates new growth.
Pest Control
Watch for aphids, scale, mites, and viburnum leaf beetles. Use horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps if pests are severe.
Overwintering
Move the potted shrub to a sheltered spot outdoors or an unheated garage once nights become very cold. Water minimally over winter.
Tips for a Healthy Arrowwood Viburnum
- Check soil moisture frequently and don’t let plants dry out completely.
- Apply a 2-4 inch layer of mulch over the soil to retain moisture and discourage weeds.
- Rotate the pot regularly so all sides get equal sun exposure.
- Stake and tie up long or heavy branches to prevent damage.
- Remove spent flowers to promote berry formation.
- Protect pots from harsh winter winds and freezing temperatures.
- Repot every 2-3 years in early spring when roots are active.
Common Problems
Yellowing leaves – This can indicate overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Leaf spots or white powder – Fungal diseases like powdery mildew are common. Improve air circulation and avoid wetting foliage.
Poor flowering – Insufficient sunlight, overpruning, and improper timing when pruning are likely causes.
Dropping leaves – Leaf drop often happens if the shrub is water-stressed. Check soil moisture routinely.
With the proper selection of container, potting mix, and location, arrowwood viburnums can be grown successfully on patios and balconies. Pay attention to sunlight, water, and fertilization needs. Prune and shape the shrubs as desired. Protect from pests and harsh weather. Repotting every few years in fresh soil will reinvigorate potted plants. Follow these tips and enjoy the grace and multi-season interest of arrowwood viburnums in pots.
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How to Care for Container Grown Viburnums
Pick the largest container you can manage. No matter the size of your container grown viburnums, however, caring for potted viburnum shrubs will still require well-drained, fertile soil. Additionally, viburnums grow best in full sun. That said, these shrubs can tolerate some shade. Although in-ground plants are somewhat tolerant of drought, container grown plants require more irrigation, especially when it’s hot. In fact, you may need to water the plants once a day, if not twice, when temps rise above 85 degrees F. (29 C.). Check the soil prior to watering to ensure they’re not receiving too much. You can help to maintain the size of viburnum plants in pots by pruning moderately in early spring.
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FAQ
Can viburnum be grown in containers?
What is the best potting mix for viburnum?
Where is the best place to plant Arrowwood Viburnum?
Do viburnums like sun or shade?
Can Arrowood Viburnum be potted?
Arrowood viburnum is too large to work well as a container plant. For a potted plant, choose a dwarf variety such as witherod viburnum ‘ Lil’ Ditty’, a cultivar of Viburnum cassinoides. Pot the plant in moist, well-drained soil with an acidic pH.
Why should you plant arrowwood Viburnum?
If you need one more reason to plant this easy-going shrub, here it is: Arrowwood Viburnum is a host plant for Spring Azure butterflies. A host plant is a specific plant that a bug or butterfly lays its eggs on. Without host plants like Arrowwood Viburnum, we would not have Spring Azure butterflies.
Should arrowwood Viburnum be pruned?
Arrowwood viburnum shrubs don’t need extensive pruning. Right after the plant is done flowering, prune any stems necessary to maintain the shrub’s shape. Avoid taking off more than a third of the shrub’s overall size. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased portions of the shrub whenever you spot them.
What is arrowwood Viburnum used for?
Arrowwood Viburnum ( Viburnum dentatum) is named for its wood, which grows very straight and was used by Native Americans to make arrows. The wood of Arrowwood Viburnum is strong and flexible, making it ideal for creating arrows for hunting. The wood of the shrub is also durable and is often used for making tool handles and other wooden objects.