Judd viburnum Viburnum × juddii

Water

Judd Viburnum should be watered deeply and thoroughly so the soil is moist but not soggy. During the first growing season, it's essential to maintain evenly moist soil, which might require watering once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions. After establishment, the plant is somewhat drought-tolerant but still benefits from watering every couple of weeks during dry spells. Generally, 1 to 1.5 gallons per watering should suffice, ensuring it reaches the root zone. Reduce frequency in winter when the plant is dormant.

Light

Judd Viburnum thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal location provides morning sunlight with some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. Too much shade can lead to reduced flowering and a leggy growth habit, while too much direct sun in the hottest regions can stress the shrub, so a balance is key.

Temperature

Judd Viburnum is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, typically thriving in USDA zones 4 through 8. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about -30 degrees Fahrenheit, and its maximum temperature tolerance generally caps around 85-90 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for robust growth and flowering is between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pruning

Judd Viburnum benefits from pruning to maintain shape and promote vigorous growth. Prune immediately after flowering, typically in late spring or early summer, as it blooms on old wood. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and thin out older stems to allow light and air into the plant. Pruning can be done annually, but it's not always necessary each year—monitor the plant's shape and health to determine the need.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Judd Viburnum thrives best in well-drained soil rich in organic matter. A good soil mix consists of equal parts garden soil, compost, and peat moss or a soil conditioner, which together create a fertile environment with good moisture retention. The ideal pH for Judd Viburnum ranges from slightly acidic to neutral, around 5.6 to 7.0.

Repotting

Judd Viburnum typically does not require frequent repotting as it is usually planted directly into the landscape. It's a shrub that, once established in the right conditions, will not need to be repotted. If grown in a container, repotting every 2-3 years or when root-bound is generally sufficient.

Humidity & Misting

Judd Viburnum is quite adaptable to different humidity levels and typically does well in the average outdoor humidity found in its growing zones. It does not require any special humidity considerations when planted in the landscape.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Plant in well-lit area, ensure pot has good drainage.

• Outdoor

  Plant in well-drained soil, full sun to partial shade.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

Viburnum x juddii, commonly known as Judd viburnum, begins its life cycle with germination from seed after a period of cold stratification, simulating winter. As a seedling, it establishes roots and a small stem, gradually forming a deciduous shrub. The juvenile stage is marked by rapid growth and the development of foliage. Upon reaching maturity, which can take several years, Judd viburnum blossoms in early to mid-spring, producing fragrant white to slightly pink flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the plant develops small red to black fruit (drupes) that are favored by birds, aiding in seed dispersal. Throughout the plant's life, which can span decades, it undergoes annual cycles of growth, flowering, fruiting, and dormancy.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Early Summer

• Propogation: Judd Viburnum (Viburnum × juddii) is commonly propagated through softwood cuttings, which is one of the most popular methods owing to its relative ease and effectiveness. This process is typically done in late spring or early summer when the new growth is still tender and pliable. To propagate by cuttings, a 4 to 6-inch (10 to 15 centimeters) section of the plant's stem is cut just below a node, where leaves and buds form. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then placed in a well-draining potting mix, ensuring at least one node is below the surface. The container should be kept moist but not overly wet, and it's helpful to cover it with a plastic bag or place it in a greenhouse to maintain high humidity, which aids in root formation. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimatized to outside conditions and eventually planted in the garden.