Sixteen Candles Summersweet

Where to Plant

• Sunlight: This shrub performs best in full sun (at least 6 hours of direct light) for the most prolific blooms, but it is one of the few flowering shrubs that handles partial shade well. In hotter climates, providing afternoon shade prevents the leaves from scorching while still supporting a healthy flower set.
• Soil: Sixteen Candles prefers moist, acidic soils and thrives in spots where other plants might struggle with "wet feet." If you have heavy clay, incorporate organic compost to improve drainage; if your soil is sandy, add peat moss to help retain the moisture this plant craves.

Watering Requirements

During the first year, provide about one inch of water per week to help the root system settle into its new home. Once established, this Clethra is remarkably dependable, but it will drop leaves or produce smaller flower spikes if the soil dries out completely. Consistent moisture is the secret to those lush, candle-like white blooms and vibrant yellow fall color.

Pruning Tips

Because this variety blooms on "new wood" (the growth produced in the current season), you should prune it in late winter or very early spring before it wakes up. Think of it like a spring haircut: remove any dead tips or thin out older stems to the ground to encourage fresh, vigorous shoots that will carry the summer's fragrant flowers. This timing ensures you don't accidentally cut off the season's flower buds.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants once in early spring as new growth appears. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer because this forces tender new growth that won't have time to harden off before the first frost. A layer of organic mulch around the base will also provide a steady trickle of nutrients while keeping the roots cool and damp.