How to Garden A Snowball Bush

Snowball bushes belong to the Viburnum opulus family. At the peak of growing season, they have hundreds of large white blooms that look like snowballs, hence the name. Unlike other members of Viburnum opulus, they do not produce fruit, but they do have beautiful foliage in the fall. The snowball bush grows best in the cool northern regions of the United States but will grow throughout the country except in the hottest southern regions. Gardening the snowball bush is not difficult as long as you have the correct knowledge on how to care for this hardy plant.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Fertilizer
• Pruning shears
• Insecticide

Instructions

1. Plant the snowball bush in the spring in an area with sun or partial shade. Make sure the plant has enough room to spread, as it can grow up to 12 feet tall. The snowball bush grows in almost any soil type, but it thrives on moist well-drained soils of average fertility.

2. Water the plant, keeping it moist until it has taken root. After it establishes itself, it only needs water in drought conditions.

3. Fertilize the plant only when needed. Snowball bushes rarely need fertilization, but if they lack luster or their growth seems to be stunted, try applying a 5-10-5 fertilizer in the spring. This fertilizer includes 5 percent nitrogen, 10 percent phosphorus, 5 percent potassium and other nutrients to boost the snowball bush's growth.

4. Prune any dead branches from the bush. Otherwise, it will keep its shape without much attention.

5. Control any aphid infestations if they bother you. Aphids tend to cluster on the plant but usually will not harm it unless the plant is young. To eliminate the unsightly bug, spray the leaves with an insecticide.

References

• Ohio State University Horticulture: Viburnum opulus
• University of Connecticut Plant Database: Viburnum opulus
• North Dakota State University Extension: Questions on Cranberries