A compact shrub with new leaves variegated in gorgeous shades of pink, maturing to green and cream or light pink, with a succession of flushes throughout the growing season. It produces small white flowers in the early spring. Height and Spread 2.5m. Full Sun/Partial Shade. Hardy.
Photinia x fraseri ‘Louise’ is a stunning evergreen shrub with variegated leaves that transition from pink to cream and green, complemented by small white flowers in early spring. This guide will help you plant and care for Photinia x fraseri ‘Louise’ to ensure it thrives in your garden.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: Plant Photinia x fraseri ‘Louise’ in spring when the soil starts to warm up. This allows the roots to establish before the growing season.
Autumn: Planting in early autumn gives your Photinia time to settle before its dormant phase, ensuring healthy growth in the next season.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Photinia grows best in full sun to partial shade. Choose a location that receives several hours of sunlight to enhance its vibrant foliage color.
Soil: This shrub thrives in moist, well-drained soil. Avoid waterlogged areas and amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve drainage and fertility.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball. This allows the roots of Photinia x fraseri ‘Louise’ to spread comfortably.
Enhance the Soil: Mix compost or well-rotted manure into the soil for added nutrients and improved structure.
Planting: Position the plant in the hole with the top of the root ball level with the soil surface. Backfill gently and firm the soil around the base to eliminate air pockets.
Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to help the soil settle around the roots.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Once established, Photinia is relatively drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering during dry spells. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering sessions.
Dormant Season: Reduce watering significantly in the dormant months, as the plant requires minimal moisture during this time.
Feeding
Spring Feeding: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to encourage lush growth and vibrant foliage.
Mid-Summer Boost: A light feed in mid-summer helps maintain the shrub’s vigor and encourages new flushes of variegated leaves.
Pruning
Shaping and Maintenance: Lightly prune your Photinia in late spring or early summer after the first flush of growth. This keeps the shrub compact and tidy.
Remove Damaged Branches: Cut out any dead, diseased, or damaged branches to promote healthy growth.
Mulching
Spring Mulch: Apply a 5–7 cm layer of organic mulch, such as bark chips or compost, around the base of the plant in spring. This conserves moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature.
Winter Protection: Mulching in late autumn provides insulation for the roots during cold weather.
Pest and Disease Prevention
Photinia x fraseri ‘Louise’ is generally resilient but can occasionally be affected by pests like aphids or diseases like leaf spot. Regular inspection and prompt action, such as using insecticidal soap or pruning affected areas, can keep your plant healthy.
Final Tips
Photinia x fraseri ‘Louise’ is a versatile, low-maintenance shrub that adds year-round interest to gardens. Its striking foliage and compact growth make it ideal for hedging, mixed borders, or as a standalone feature. By planting it in well-drained soil and following this care guide, you can enjoy the beauty of your Photinia for years to come.
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