Growing Old Fashioned Weigela

There are many varieties of weigela, some dwarf. But the one mentioned here grows to about 6 foot and has a spread of 6 foot also. (Give or take a foot each way depending on the soil, climate etc.). It's hardy to Zone 4, but may have some winter kill during harsh winters. It tends to grow about a foot each season, and blooms in late spring and summer. Weigela blooms best if it's located in full sun, but it will tolerate partial shade. A pruning tip-- you'll see it mentioned that it doesn't need pruning often, but if the tips are pruned it will bloom more often. As general maintenance prune one-third of the oldest wood each spring after flowering. This will help to keep the shrubs graceful shape. The soil should be well-drained, and not too dry, though it will adapt to most soils. As with many shrubs, plants and trees, your weigela should be cared for carefully when first planted, even if it has a reputation of being tough. Established weigela are very carefree, and easy to grow.

Weigela propagates easily with cuttings. One method is to take cuttings with a very sharp tool, then dip them in water and then a rooting hormone before placing in a soil-less potting mixture that you've moistened ahead of time. Place the pot in a plastic bag or plastic container that can be used as a mini-greenhouse. Place water in the bottom and close for a month and a 1/2 or so til you see new growth. Then remove and continue to grow.

Weigela is a beautiful shrub on it's own, but add in the hummingbirds that love the blooms and it's impossible to resist!