How to Grow Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is a sturdy and beautiful deciduous tree that once established, requires very little care to keep it healthy and beautiful. You can grow it in either sun or partial shade, but give it plenty of room; it can sometimes reach 20 feet in height, and sometimes grows taller. Witch hazel will produce a delightful scent in the middle of winter, and the birds will love snacking on the seeds.

Things You'll Need

• Witch hazel plant
• Shovel
• Organic material (such as compost, manure or peat moss)
• Pruning shears

Instructions

1. Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the root ball of the witch hazel plant.

2. Work a generous amount of organic material, such as compost, manure or peat moss into the soil.

3. Remove burlap from around the root ball. If the soil inside the root ball is loose, loosen the burlap and remove it after you've placed the root ball in the hole.

4. Water the witch hazel regularly for the first year, and during any periods of drought. Otherwise the plant will require very little watering.

5. Prune the witch hazel as needed to remove any dying or dead branches, or to keep it in a uniform shape. You can also trim it to provide material for bouquets, but never prune the plant more than necessary, and only during the winter months when the plant is dormant.

Tips & Warnings

• Plant witch hazel where you can see the beautiful yellow foliage and enjoy the delightful winter fragrance.