About Frank and Vicky Giannangelo Expertise We will research and answer all questions about organic gardening, soil building, square foot gardening, composting, mulching, planting techniques, sustainable gardening, sustainability, garden design, and how to create a simple reflection pool to attract birds and wildlife. Over the years we have learned that plants respond to the garden's aesthetics, soil conditions, and the attitude of the gardener. The healthier the soil and soul, the healthier the plants become, and are therefore more able to resist insect attacks.
Experience 40 years experience in private and professional organic gardening, creating formal gardens, giving organic gardening workshops, and sharing our insights.
Organizations New Mexico Registered Organic Gardens
Question we have just recently bought an American beauty plant and are wondering what time of year to plant it ant where abouts we should our garden has a privert hedge all the way round it if that helps thanks
Lorraine xx
Answer Hopefully you live an an area with a planting zone of 5 and above. The plants do well in partial shade and sunny locations in well-drained soils, and are adapted to climates with hot, humid summers and moderate winters.
If you live in the right area, and you are refering to the native Callicarpa americana American Beautyberry plant then I can help you. You should plant it now.
These native shrups can grow from 4 to 6 feet in height and seeds that are dropped can germinate producing many plants that could transplanted somewhere else, or discarded to avoid its invasive tendencies.
I would probably plant it in a corner of the hedged area and allow room for it to become quite wide, up to 5 feet in diameter. Or where ever you think you might like it to grow, considering its height and size at maturity.
Flowers are produced on new stem growth, so prune the plant after the fruits are gone if you want to increase next year’s growth and berry production. The shrubs can take a hard pruning and may be pruned to the ground level in the winter, if desired.
