Korean Weigela Weigela coraeensis 'Alba'

Water

Korean Weigela should be watered deeply, approximately once a week, depending on the climate and soil conditions. Aim to provide about 1 inch of water, which translates to about 0.623 gallons for each square foot of soil area, ensuring that the water penetrates deeply into the root zone. During hotter, dry spells, watering frequency should increase to every few days. It's important to reduce watering in the fall to prepare the plant for winter. Always check the soil moisture before watering to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

Light

Korean Weigela thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions. The ideal spot for this plant is where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, though it can tolerate some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. Avoid deeply shaded areas, as too little light can reduce flowering and can cause the plant to become leggy.

Temperature

Korean Weigela is hardy and can withstand a temperature range from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) plant hardiness zones 4 to 8, which equates to a minimum temperature of around -30°F to -20°F. For optimal growth, maintaining a temperature range between 50°F and 75°F is ideal. Sudden temperature fluctuations should be avoided to prevent stress on the plant.

Pruning

Pruning Korean Weigela is done to maintain its shape, encourage bushier growth, and improve its flowering. The best time for pruning is immediately after its spring flowering has concluded. Prune by cutting back about one-third of the oldest stems to the ground to stimulate new growth and removal of any dead or damaged wood. This plant blooms on the previous year's growth, so prune sparingly and not more than once a year to avoid cutting off next year's flower buds.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The White Weigela flourishes best in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, to encourage healthy growth. A slightly acidic to neutral pH range, ideally between 5.5 and 7.5, is suitable for this shrub.

Repotting

White Weigela generally does not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every few years or when you observe that the plant has outgrown its current container.

Humidity & Misting

The White Weigela prefers average humidity levels and is fairly adaptable to the typical range found in outdoor garden environments, without the need for special humidity adjustments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright indirect light, well-draining soil, and room to grow.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sun or part shade, provide mulch, and space well.

• Hardiness zone

  5-8 USDA

Life cycle

Weigela coraeensis 'Alba', commonly known as the white Weigela, begins its life cycle as a dormant seed that germinates in spring when soil temperatures and moisture conditions are suitable. The seedling stage is characterized by the emergence of the cotyledons and the first true leaves, establishing the plant before it enters a rapid vegetative growth phase where stems, leaves, and the root system develop robustly. Once mature, the white Weigela enters its flowering stage, typically in late spring to early summer, producing clusters of trumpet-shaped white flowers that are attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies. After pollination, flowers develop into small capsules containing seeds, completing the reproductive stage. The plant may enter a period of dormancy in the fall, with leaves changing color and falling off, as it conserves energy for the next growing season. With proper care, Weigela coraeensis 'Alba' can continue its life cycle for many years, growing into a larger shrub and producing flowers annually.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: Weigela coraeensis 'Alba', commonly known as White Weigela, is most effectively propagated by softwood cuttings during late spring to early summer, when the plant's new growth is still pliable but not too tender. To do this, a gardener should select a healthy stem with several sets of leaves and snip it to a length of about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters). The lower leaves are then removed, and the cut end can be dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root development. This cutting is then placed in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a humid environment with indirect sunlight. Rooting typically takes a few weeks, after which the new Weigela can be transplanted to a more permanent location.