A bushy, female evergreen shrub with glossy lance-shaped, dark green leaves. Dense panicles of fragrant white flowers in late spring followed by large clusters of round, glossy green fruit that ripens bright red and persists throughout winter. Height and Spread 1m. Shaded site. Hardy.
Skimmia japonica ‘Pabella’ is a compact evergreen shrub admired for its glossy green foliage, fragrant white flowers, and vibrant red berries. This low-maintenance plant is ideal for gardens, containers, or borders, providing year-round interest. Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure your Skimmia japonica ‘Pabella’ thrives.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: Plant Skimmia japonica ‘Pabella’ in spring when the soil starts to warm. This allows the roots to establish before the growing season begins.
Autumn: Alternatively, plant it in early autumn. This gives the shrub ample time to settle before winter, ensuring healthy growth in spring.
Site Selection
Light: Skimmia prefers partial to full shade, making it perfect for sheltered areas in your garden. Avoid planting in direct, harsh sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Soil: Choose well-drained, slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter. Avoid waterlogged areas to prevent root rot, as Skimmia japonica ‘Pabella’ prefers moist but not saturated soil.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and of the same depth. This ensures the roots have enough space to spread comfortably.
Soil Preparation: Mix compost or well-rotted organic matter into the soil to improve fertility and drainage. Acidic soil is especially beneficial for Skimmia japonica ‘Pabella’.
Planting: Position the shrub in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill gently, firming the soil to remove air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to help settle the soil and encourage root establishment. Ensure good drainage to avoid water pooling around the roots.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Skimmia’Pabella’ requires consistent watering during its first year. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant but benefits from watering during prolonged dry spells.
Winter: Reduce watering during the colder months, as the plant requires minimal moisture when growth slows.
Feeding
Spring: Apply an ericaceous (acidic) fertiliser in early spring to support vibrant blooms and healthy foliage.
Mid-Summer: A light feeding in summer will promote the development of the striking red berries Skimmia japonica ‘Pabella’ is known for.
Pruning
After Flowering: Lightly prune your Skimmia after it finishes flowering. Remove any dead or damaged branches to maintain a tidy shape and encourage new growth.
Autumn Cleanup: Trim back any overgrown stems in late autumn to prepare the plant for the colder months.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of Skimmia japonica ‘Pabella’ to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil quality. Use organic materials like bark or leaf mold.
Winter: A winter mulch layer helps protect the roots from frost and maintains soil temperature.
Supporting the Plant
Skimmia japonica ‘Pabella’ has a naturally compact growth habit and rarely requires staking. However, if planted in a windy location, ensure it is sheltered to avoid damage.
Final Tips
Skimmia japonica ‘Pabella’ is a versatile shrub that thrives in shaded areas with well-drained, acidic soil. With minimal maintenance, it rewards gardeners with fragrant flowers, glossy leaves, and striking berries. Incorporate this Skimmia into your garden for year-round appeal and a touch of vibrant colour in the cooler months. By following this guide, you’ll enjoy the beauty of Skimmia season after season.
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