Oregon Grape Mahonia × media 'Underway'

Water

For the Oregon grape, it's important to water the plant deeply and infrequently to simulate its natural environment. Typically, it needs watering once a week during dry spells, with about 1 to 2 gallons per watering session. In cooler months or when rainfall is sufficient, reduce watering to every two weeks or less, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Always check the soil moisture before watering to prevent over-watering, as this can lead to root rot. During extreme heat or in very sandy soils, you may need to increase the frequency slightly.

Light

The Oregon grape performs best in partial shade to full sun. It thrives in dappled sunlight or a spot that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. Avoid deep shade, as this can lead to leggy growth and fewer flowers. Plant it in a location where it is protected from the harsh midday sun, especially in hotter climates.

Temperature

Oregon grape is hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for many temperate climates. Its ideal growing temperature is between 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, but it will tolerate summer highs well into the 80s and 90s. Ensure the plant is mulched well to protect its roots from extreme cold if temperatures are expected to drop significantly below freezing for prolonged periods.

Pruning

Prune the Oregon grape to remove any dead or damaged wood and to shape the plant, if desired, immediately after flowering to ensure bud set for the next year. Pruning is not strictly necessary every year; however, if the plant becomes overgrown or you wish to encourage more vigorous growth, a more substantial pruning can be done. The best time for heavier pruning is late winter or early spring before new growth starts.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Oregon Grape 'Underway' best thrives in well-draining, fertile, and slightly acidic to neutral soil with pH between 5.5 and 7.5. The best soil mix is a blend of loamy soil, peat moss, and sand to ensure good drainage. Regular organic matter amendments will enhance the soil's fertility.

Repotting

Oregon Grape 'Underway' is a relatively slow-growing shrub and seldom needs repotting. In a garden setting, it may never require repotting, but if grown in containers, repot every 3-5 years or when it becomes root-bound.

Humidity & Misting

Oregon Grape 'Underway' tolerates a wide range of humidity levels but prefers moderate humidity. It is typically not demanding in terms of atmospheric moisture and can thrive in average outdoor humidity conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright indirect light and keep in cool area.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade, shelter from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  7-9 USDA

Life cycle

Mahonia × media 'Underway', commonly known as Oregon grape or Mahonia, begins its lifecycle when seeds germinate, preferably in shady conditions with well-draining soil. Once sprouted, the seedling grows into a young plant, establishing a root system and producing compound leaves that are often spiny. As the plant matures, it develops into an evergreen shrub with a sturdy structure capable of withstanding various climates. During late fall to early winter, it enters a reproductive stage, producing fragrant yellow flowers that attract pollinators and subsequently develop into dark blue, berry-like fruits. These fruits are eaten by birds and other wildlife, which helps disperse the seeds to initiate new life cycles. Over several years, Mahonia × media 'Underway' may increase in size and spread through suckering, creating a larger stand of the shrub.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late winter to early spring

• Mahonia × media 'Underway', commonly known as Mahonia, is a hybrid shrub that is typically propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in late summer, after the new growth has started to mature and harden slightly but is not yet fully woody. To propagate Mahonia by cuttings, a 4 to 6 inch (10 to 15 cm) piece of stem is taken, ideally with several leaves left at the top and the lower leaves removed. The base of the cutting is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development, and then it is planted in a well-draining soil mix. Providing a humid environment by covering the cutting with a plastic bag or placing it in a propagator helps to prevent moisture loss. Roots typically develop within a few weeks to a few months, and once established, the new plant can be transplanted into the garden.