How to Grow Red Tip Shrubs

In outdoor landscaping, shrubbery provides a pleasing background to almost any type of setting. One of the most popular shrubs across the southern half of the United States and on the west coast, the Red-Tip Photinia is hardy and beautiful year-around. We're going to look at some ways to ensure the addition of these red-tip shrubs is a successful one.

Things You'll Need

• A sunny location
• Red-Tip Photinia shrubs

Instructions

1. Part of the rose family, the Red-Tip Photinia grows best when it has access to full sunlight and is planted in warm or hot climates. They can do well in dry climates, as long as they're watered often but sparingly. These hardy plants can survive in colder temperatures for a time, but it is necessary to make sure they are well insulated and protected when the temperature drops. Soil is best sandy or loamy, and should have excellent drainage.

2. Shrubs should be planted between four and six feet apart. As they grow, they will form a dense hedge.

3. The Red-Tip Photinia gets its name from the color of its new growth. The red will change to green as the leaves mature, but it's easy to keep the new red growth coming. Pruning will encourage the growth of new dense foliage. Make sure they are well watered after pruning; it's also a good time to fertilize to further encourage new growth. If they aren't pruned, they will grow tall and narrow, and can even be shaped to look like a tree.

4. The shrubs will lose few leaves when healthy. They will also bloom, and erupt in clusters of small, simple white flowers.

5. Be sure not to overwater. Red-Tip Photinia are susceptible to Black Spot, which can be made worse by standing water and mulch. Black Spot usually isn't fatal, as long as it's treated properly. A local garden center will have sprays to combat this disease.

Tips & Warnings

• Red-Tip Photinias can give off an extremely pungent odor. Be cautious when planting near doors, walkways and windows.