Sweet shrubs (Calycanthus) are versatile, deciduous shrubs with stunning flowers that emit a pleasant fragrance and are native to various regions of the United States. Their low-maintenance nature makes them an attractive addition to any garden. In this article, we will discuss three ways to plant a sweet shrub so that you can add this beautiful plant to your landscape.

1. Plant from Seeds:

One of the most traditional ways to plant a sweet shrub is by germinating seeds.

– Step 1: Acquire fresh sweet shrub seeds from a reliable source or harvest them during autumn from an existing mature plant.

– Step 2: Place the seeds in moist, well-drained potting soil in seed trays or small pots. Cover the seeds lightly with soil so they have room to grow.

– Step 3: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, and place the seed trays in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight. It can take several weeks for the seeds to germinate.

– Step 4: Once seedlings have developed a few sets of leaves, transplant them carefully into larger pots or directly into your garden. Be sure to select an area with well-draining soil and partial to full sun exposure.

2. Plant from Cuttings:

Another method of planting a sweet shrub is by taking cuttings from an existing plant.

– Step 1: In early summer, take healthy, 4-6-inch cuttings from the current season’s growth on an established sweet shrub plant.

– Step 2: Remove all but the top pair of leaves on each cutting and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder to encourage root development.

– Step 3: Plant each cutting about 2 inches deep into pots filled with moist, well-draining potting soil. Place a plastic bag over the cuttings to maintain humidity, ensuring that the leaves are not touching the bag.

– Step 4: Keep the cuttings moist and in a sheltered, shaded location until new growth appears. Once established, transplant the rooted cuttings into their permanent location in your garden.

3. Plant by Layering:

Layering is another way of propagating sweet shrubs and can be done directly in your garden.

– Step 1: Select a healthy, flexible branch on an established sweet shrub plant, making sure it can reach the ground without breaking.

– Step 2: In spring or autumn, gently bend the branch to the ground and create a small trench where it touches the soil. Make a shallow cut or nick on the underside of the branch and apply rooting hormone powder to the wound.

– Step 3: Cover this section of the branch with soil while keeping it pressed against the ground. Use landscape pins or rocks to weigh down the soil-covered section securely.

– Step 4: Water well and wait patiently for several months as roots develop. Once you see new growth emerge from this branch section, carefully sever it from the parent plant to create a new sweet shrub.

Conclusion:

There you have it—three different methods for planting sweet shrubs in your garden. Each method has its advantages and may appeal to different types of gardeners. No matter which method you choose, planting a sweet shrub is a rewarding experience that results in beautiful blooms and exquisite fragrance throughout your garden.