Mahonia x media ‘Charity’

Description

Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ is an evergreen shrub admired for its architectural form, striking yellow flowers, and robust foliage. Follow this guide to ensure your Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ thrives in your garden.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant your Mahonia in spring to allow the roots to establish before the growing season. This ensures the shrub develops a strong foundation.
• Autumn: Alternatively, planting in early autumn allows the plant to settle before dormancy, promoting vigorous growth the following year.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Mahonia grows well in full or partial shade. Choose a sheltered location that avoids prolonged exposure to harsh winds.
• Soil: For best results, plant in moist, well-drained soil. Adding organic matter such as compost improves soil fertility and helps retain moisture without becoming waterlogged.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Planting Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball to give your Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ ample space to grow.
2. Soil Enrichment: Mix organic matter into the soil to boost nutrients and enhance drainage.
3. Positioning: Place the shrub in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill the hole gently, firming the soil around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Thoroughly water the area to settle the soil and establish good contact between the roots and the ground.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: During the first year, water regularly to help your Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ establish. Once established, it is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells.
• Winter Dormancy: Reduce watering during the dormant months, ensuring the soil doesn’t become too dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a general-purpose fertiliser in early spring to encourage healthy new growth and vibrant flowers.
• Mid-Summer: A light feed in mid-summer can help maintain the health and vigour of your Mahonia.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove spent flower spikes after flowering to maintain a neat appearance.
• Shaping: Prune lightly in late spring to remove dead or damaged stems and shape the plant. This promotes new growth and ensures the shrub remains compact and tidy.

Mulching

• Spring: Add a layer of mulch, such as bark chips or well-rotted compost, around the base of your Mahonia. This helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
• Autumn: Reapply mulch in autumn to protect the roots from extreme temperatures.

Supporting the Plant

• Wind Protection: Although Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ is sturdy, ensure it is planted in a location protected from strong winds, which can damage its leaves or flowers.

Final Tips

Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ is a low-maintenance shrub that adds year-round interest with its bold foliage and fragrant yellow flowers from November to March. Whether used as a focal point in the garden or planted as part of a shaded border, Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ is a stunning choice for adding structure and colour. By planting in well-drained soil and providing minimal care, your Mahonia will reward you with seasonal beauty and a striking presence in your garden.