All That Glows® Arrowwood Viburnum

Where to Plant

• Sunlight: Aim for full sun (six or more hours of direct sun) to ensure maximum flower and berry production; part sun is acceptable, but it may result in fewer blooms and a less vigorous, open habit. This shrub needs at least four hours of direct light daily to set its beautiful blue fruit.
• Soil: Choose a site with moist, well-drained soil, though this variety is highly adaptable and can handle both clay and slightly alkaline conditions. If your native soil is very sandy, incorporate plenty of bulky, moisture-conserving organic matter, like compost, when planting to help keep the roots cool.

Watering Requirements

While establishing, water your Viburnum thoroughly once per week for the first six weeks, ensuring the top three inches of soil stay consistently moist. Once established, this is a naturally drought-tolerant shrub, but if you notice the plant drooping during extended dry spells, give it a deep, saturating soak. Inconsistent watering will certainly lead to stress and may result in fewer berries or smaller, less glossy foliage.

Pruning Tips

This Viburnum blooms on old wood, meaning the flower buds for next spring are set on the branches during the previous summer. Pruning should be done immediately after flowering is complete in late spring or early summer, if needed, and before the berries form. Avoid heavy shearing; instead, use thinning cuts to remove up to one-third of the oldest, thickest stems right down to the ground to encourage healthy, new growth and better air circulation.

Fertilizer Needs

Feed your shrub once in early spring as new growth begins with a balanced, granular, slow-release fertilizer formulated for trees and shrubs. Simply apply the recommended amount over the root zone and water it in well. What you want to avoid is using a high-nitrogen fertilizer late in the summer, as this will push new, tender growth that won't harden off properly before winter, making the branches susceptible to frost damage.