How to Choose Flowering Shrubs

Flowering shrubs are pretty and versatile. Most flowering shrubs bloom in spring, and their flowers can last one season or continue through the summer and into the fall. Many flowering shrubs change color in autumn, too. Some have berries and colorful bark to liven the winter landscape. Read on to learn how to choose flowering shrubs.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Decide how your shrubs will function. Shrubs can be a hedge, screen, border or specimen plant. Select the size and shape of the bush.

2. Choose the colors that you want for the flowers and leaves. The leaves could be dark or light green or turn colors in the fall. Consider the option of fragrant flowers.

3. Determine the requirements for your shrubs and the type of care needed for each variety you are considering.

4. Learn the conditions of your area. Find out which growing zone you are in and look at the types of shrub that do best for your zone. Consider the soil, light and hardiness.

5. List the shrubs that meet your requirements.

6. Visit the nursery with your list. It is time to see what selections they carry and compare the plants.

7. Examine the shrubs. Look for a healthy plant. Choose those with straight branches stretching outward, uniform color and green leaves instead of yellow.

Tips & Warnings

• The best time to buy is in the spring. Nurseries carry the best variety of flowering shrubs then, and they can be planted soon after purchase to allow immediate enjoyment. You can also find discounts on flowering shrubs in the fall; be sure to plant them early enough to allow them to become established before the ground freezes.
• Make sure the shrubs are a good match for the conditions in your growing area and the particular spot where you will be planting them.