Why is My Arrowwood Viburnum Shrub Falling Over?

Arrowwood viburnum (Viburnum dentatum) is a hardy, ornamental shrub valued for its spring blooms fall berries and reliable performance in the landscape. However, a leaning or falling over arrowwood viburnum can be both unsightly and a sign of underlying problems. If your arrowwood viburnum shrub is collapsing or tilting to one side, there are several potential causes to investigate.

Common Reasons for a Falling Arrowwood Viburnum

An arrowwood viburnum shrub that is falling over or slumping unnaturally likely indicates an issue with the plant’s stability. Here are some of the most common reasons this ornamental shrub can start to collapse:

• Insufficient Root System – Poor planting, damaged roots, or stressful growing conditions can all inhibit the root system. Without a robust network of roots to anchor it, the shrub can start leaning or falling over.

• Overgrown Canopy – If the shrub gets leggy and top-heavy without proper pruning, the excessive weight and imbalance can cause the arrowwood viburnum to tilt or slump over.

• Soil Compaction – Heavy clay soil, foot traffic around the shrub, and poor drainage can compact the soil, preventing the roots from properly anchoring the plant.

• Disease or Pests – Root rot, stem canker, and borers are some of the diseases and pests that can attack the foundational structure of the viburnum

• Extreme Weather – High winds, heavy rains, drought stress, and other weather extremes can sometimes cause a shrub to fall over if the roots are already compromised.

Take a close look at your plant to try to pinpoint which of these issues may be causing the problem. Addressing it promptly can get your arrowwood viburnum standing upright again.

How to Fix a Falling Over Arrowwood Viburnum

Once you determine why your arrowwood viburnum is slumping over, you can take corrective action to fix the underlying problem. Here are some remedies to help get your plant looking healthy and growing straight again:

• Check the Roots – Carefully excavate the root system and look for girdling or circling roots. Prune and untangle them to encourage outward growth.

• Replant Properly – For a severely inadequate root system, the best solution can be to replant the shrub in a new location with rich, amended soil.

• Stake the Plant – Insert stakes around the shrub and loosely tie the stems to provide support as you work to correct the underlying problem.

• Prune the Canopy – Selectively trim back overgrown, leggy growth and thin inner branches to balance and lighten the canopy.

• Improve Soil Structure – Loosen compacted soil, incorporate organic matter, and use mulch to improve moisture and aeration in the root zone.

• Treat Diseases and Pests – Apply appropriate organic pesticides and fungicides if insects or diseases are attacking the roots or stems.

• Provide Shelter – Erect a temporary windbreak for added protection if extreme weather has battered your viburnum.

As the plant recovers over the next few seasons, the root system should expand and reinforce the shrub. Continue proper viburnum care to prevent future leaning issues.

Early Signs of an Unstable Arrowwood Viburnum

Catching root or structural issues early before the viburnum leans severely can make corrections easier. Monitor your plant for these signs of instability:

• Leaves wilting or yellowing only on one side or section of the shrub.

• Bare branches on just part of the canopy while the rest remains leafy.

• Mushrooms or fungal growth at the base indicating root rot.

• Evidence of borers, cankers, or other stem pests.

• Circling surface roots or roots growing from the trunk above the soil line.

• Cracking or splitting sounds from the trunk or branches.

• Tilting gradually to one side rather than growing straight upward.

Addressing these warning signs promptly can help prevent further decline and falling over.

How to Support a Falling Arrowwood Viburnum

While correcting the underlying problem, you may need to prop up a slumping arrowwood viburnum to prevent permanent damage. Here are some tips:

• Place stakes a foot or so away from the trunk and sink them at least 1-2 feet into undisturbed soil.

• Tie rattan straps, stretchable tree ties, or twist ties around the stakes and stems to provide flexible support.

• Avoid using rigid materials pressed against the bark which can lead to girdling. Check ties periodically.

• For large multi-stemmed shrubs, use 3-4 stakes arranged around the shrub for optimal support.

• Keep the bases of the stakes clear so they don’t impede mowing or allow rubbing against the bark.

Temporary staking gives the roots a chance to recover their structural support capacity over time. Just be sure not to leave the stakes in place longer than needed.

Preventing Future Falling Over of Arrowwood Viburnum

With proper care and growing conditions, arrowwood viburnum should remain sturdy and upright. Here are some tips to keep it standing tall:

• Select a site protected from strong winds which can batter the shrub.

• Space plants appropriately to allow good airflow and prevent crowding.

• Water deeply during drought and improve drainage in overly moist soils.

• Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

• Prune selectively each year after flowering to maintain an ideal, balanced shape.

• Control any disease or insect issues before they can spread extensively.

• Check for girdling roots and surface rooting periodically.

• Add a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch around the base to insulate the soil.

By addressing causes early and providing attentive care, you can keep your arrowwood viburnum looking neat, healthy, and upright for years to come. A falling over shrub is inconvenient but fixable. Just be sure to investigate and remedy the underlying problem, rather than just staking the plant temporarily. With a little TLC, your arrowwood viburnum will be back to showcasing its beautiful form and flowers in no time.