If you're looking for a low-maintenance shrub that won't disappoint in the summer, the Wigela is the perfect plant. Wigela shrubs are known for their brightly colored, trumpet-like flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer, usually in May, June, and July.
Their flower colors range from deep red to pale yellow, making them popular with garden visitors and passing pollinators alike. Plus, these vibrant shrubs tolerate most soil conditions and thrive in both full sun and partial shade. Who doesn't love low-maintenance plants?
When considering how to grow a weigela, this fast-growing shrub is native to Asia and will eventually reach a height of 6 to 15 feet. Weigela shrubs thrive when placed at the back of a flower bed in a sunny location that's protected from the elements. Here, horticulture experts advise on the best approach to feeding a weigela plant and the best products to use.
(Image credit: Getty Images/seven75)
Learn how to fertilize your weigela
Weigela is a prized plant that produces vibrant flowers in late spring and early summer. This shrub, which grows best in U.S. hardiness zones 4 through 7, will brighten up your backyard with pink, red and yellow flowers that can grow up to 1 to 2 inches long. Knowing how and when to fertilize weigela is an important part of caring for this popular plant.
When to fertilize Weigela
(Image credit: Federica Grassi/Moment/Getty Images)
“Weigela is a low-maintenance shrub that doesn't require a lot of fertilizer,” says plant expert Katie Sundaraj, “so I recommend fertilizing it just once a year.”
Katie recommends fertilising “in late winter or early spring, just as the buds and shoots start to emerge from the ground”.
A fertilizer application, such as this shrub fertilizer available at Walmart, in February or March is best to give your horticultural plants a boost before they flower in late spring.
While you may be tempted to fertilize your horticultural shrubs during the summer, this is not recommended. Fertilizing your plants when they don't need to is a common fertilization mistake to avoid. Instead, it's best to follow a light fertilizing schedule and fertilize only once in the spring, which will help keep your plants healthy.
For potted hortensias, we recommend fertilizing them once in the spring, as Katie recommends, and then one or two small doses in the summer. Use half the recommended amount of fertilizer, but fertilizing your potted plants can be helpful, as they tend to be starved for nutrients.
Katie Sunderlage
Social Links Navigation
Plant experts and buyers
As the Operations Manager for Holland Group, Katie manages the customer service department and purchasing. Katie has been involved in the Greater Milwaukee area green industry since 2005, earning her degree in Horticulture in 2008. She has shared her love of plants working in multiple garden centers, sales positions and most recently for Holland Group's online retail platform.
How to fertilize Weigela
(Image credit: Getty Images/Cristina Ionescu)
“The best time to fertilize your weigela is in late winter or early spring, just before the plant comes out of dormancy,” Katie continues. “It's best to use a slow-release fertilizer that will continue to provide nutrients throughout the spring and summer,” like this sprinkle fertilizer from Walmart.
“It's a good idea to use a fertilizer that contains a balanced plant fertilizer formula,” says Katie. “Products labeled 10-10-10 are best.”
“Whatever type of fertiliser you use, it's really important to follow the instructions,” Katie continues. “No matter the type of fertiliser, whether it's water-soluble, granular or powder, be careful not to overdo it or apply it directly to the plant itself, otherwise it can get on the leaves and stems and burn.”
Katie recommends applying fertiliser carefully around the base of the plant so that maximum nutrients are absorbed by the roots.
“It's important to remember that hortensia requires a soil pH level of between 5.5 and 7.5,” continues Katie, “so even if your plant looks healthy, don't assume it needs fertiliser straight away. We recommend testing the soil pH level – your plant may be struggling with soil acidity or alkalinity.” Soil tests are available on Amazon.
Finally, as with other shrubs, mulching the borders in the fall will improve soil health and nutrients below ground. Organic mulch is available at Walmart.
Buy fertilizer
Miracle Gro Bloom Booster
This Miracle-Grow flowering promoting fertilizer will nourish all your pot and border plants to encourage a spectacular summer flower show.
Miracle Grow Shake & Feed
This traditional fertilizer is perfect for use on any plant or shrub, and you'll be amazed at how long-lasting the effects of this fertilizer are.
Pennington Organic Fertilizer
Using organic and natural ingredients is good for your garden and this fertilizer will revitalize the soil and help your plants grow.
FAQ
Can I fertilize my weigela in the summer?
Weigela grown in borders should be fertilised just once a year, in the spring – not in the summer. Don't worry if you miss this period – just remember to add it to your gardening checklist next spring. Weigela grown in pots should be fertilised once in the spring with a slow release fertiliser, then once or twice in the summer with a very small amount of water-soluble fertiliser.
Fertilizing your weigela once a year will encourage the shrub to produce vibrant flowers and thrive in new growth. Don't over-fertilize as this can do more harm than good. For more advice on gardening with weigela, check out our guide on how to prune weigela to keep your plant looking its best again this year.
