An upright shrub with dark green leaves. Clusters of bell-shaped, dark red flowers open from very dark red buds from late spring to early summer. Height 2.5m. Spread 2m. Full Sun/Partial Shade. Hardy.
Weigela ‘Bristol Ruby’ is a stunning upright shrub, known for its dark green leaves and clusters of bell-shaped, dark red flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. This hardy shrub, growing up to 2.5m in height and 2m in spread, is perfect for adding vibrant colour to garden borders or for creating a focal point in larger landscapes. With the right care, Weigela ‘Bristol Ruby’ can thrive year after year, bringing beauty and interest to your garden. Follow this guide to ensure your Weigela ‘Bristol Ruby’ flourishes.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The best time to plant is in spring, once the soil has warmed up. Planting in spring allows the roots to establish before the plant enters its blooming season, ensuring strong growth and abundant flowers.
Autumn: Alternatively, early autumn planting is also suitable. This gives the shrub time to settle in and establish its root system before the colder months arrive, leading to a healthier plant the following year.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Weigela ‘Bristol Ruby’ thrives in full sun to partial shade. Ideally, the plant should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to promote vibrant flower production and strong growth.
Soil: Well-drained soil is essential for the health of Weigela ‘Bristol Ruby.’ The plant does not tolerate waterlogged conditions, so ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Enrich the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve fertility and drainage.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice the width and the same depth as the root ball. This allows the roots to spread and establish themselves more easily.
Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil to provide extra nutrients and improve drainage. Weigela ‘Bristol Ruby’ will thrive in soil that is rich in organic material.
Planting: Place the root ball into the prepared hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole, firming the soil gently to remove any air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to help the soil settle and encourage root establishment. Ensure that the soil is well-drained to avoid water logging.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Weigela ‘Bristol Ruby’ prefers moderately moist soil. Water deeply during dry spells, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as it can cause root issues.
Dormant Season: During the dormant season, reduce watering. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry, as the plant does not require much moisture during this period.
Feeding
Spring: In early spring, apply a balanced fertiliser to give Weigela ‘Bristol Ruby’ a strong start to the growing season. This supports healthy new growth and encourages abundant flowering.
Mid-Summer: A light feeding in mid-summer can help maintain the plant’s vigour and prolong its blooming period. Use a slow-release fertiliser for the best results.
Pruning
Deadheading: Regularly deadhead the spent flowers to keep the shrub looking tidy and encourage new blooms.
Autumn Pruning: After flowering, prune back any dead or damaged stems to maintain the shape of the shrub. This prepares it for the dormant season and promotes healthier growth the following year.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base in spring to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic materials like bark chips or compost work well.
Winter: In winter, a layer of mulch around the base helps protect the roots from frost and ensures the plant survives through the cold months.
Supporting the Plant
Weigela ‘Bristol Ruby’ typically has a compact, upright growth habit and does not require staking. However, if planted in a windy area, consider providing some support to prevent wind damage.
Final Tips
Weigela ‘Bristol Ruby’ is a hardy and low-maintenance shrub that will reward you with beautiful, vibrant blooms from late spring to early summer. By planting it in full sun or partial shade and ensuring it has well-drained soil, you’ll enjoy years of stunning flowers and a healthy, thriving plant. Follow this guide to keep your Weigela ‘Bristol Ruby’ looking its best throughout the seasons.
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