Deutzias are leaf-losing shrubs known as Deut’zia that make an eye-catching display when in bloom, yet remain otherwise undistinguished. Their flowers arise from side buds of last year’s growth; many varieties can be found native to China, Japan and Himalayas; however most varieties require protection even in climates like New York City’s surroundings during winter cold. Most Deutzia varieties belong to the Saxifragaceae family and were named in honor of John van der Deutz who supported botany as patron and Sheriff of Amsterdam!
Propagation and Cultivation Deutzias can be propagated easily using 3-4 in. long cuttings taken of soft shoots between May and early June or firmer wood in July; dibbling them in sand or sandy peat before placing in a propagating case in frame or greenhouse will produce the best results. Once young plants reach two years of age they should be transplanted into permanent positions using loamy soil that does not dry out too rapidly for optimal growth results.
To create plants that flower freely, they must be encouraged to form well-ripened wood each year. You can do this by cutting back some old shoots once flowers have faded; cutting these back further if you see new shoots growing from them; dressing soil above roots with well-rotted farmyard manure or periodically applying complete fertilizers such as seaweed meal.
Deutzias prefer an area with plenty of sun so their shoots can reach maturity as quickly as possible. They can be planted both in soils with lime content and somewhat acidic pH levels; smaller-growing types work well in beds while larger varieties can serve as specimens or group plantings.
As forcing plants, dwarf varieties such as D. gracilis make excellent spring greenhouse decorations. It is wise to cultivate specifically for this purpose and start forcing the young plants once they reach two years of age; as soon as deterioration sets in they should be relocated outdoors as soon as possible.
+ There are no comments
Add yours