Pieris Care:

Pieris prefer moist, acidic soil and partial to full sunlight. Apply soil amendments and acid fertilizers as needed to maintain soil pH between 5 and 6.

You can lower the soil's pH by incorporating 1 to 2 inches of sphagnum peat and enrich it by mixing in a 1 to 2 inches of well-rotted manure or compost.

Water Pieris deeply about once a week. The soil should be moist to about 3 inches deep in the soil. If it feels dry, supply more water but avoid over-saturating the soil.

Apply a 2- to 3-inch thick layer of mint compost around the base of the plant to conserve moisture and prevent weed growth. We offer mint compost here.

Pieris require very little feeding. However, like any plant, the shrub will use nitrogen during active growth phases. Keep plants vigorous with an annual application of nitrogen before flowering in late winter (mid-February) or just after flowering in early spring (mid-May).

Pruning:

Cut off any spent flowers as needed with pruning shears. Trim back overgrown or diseased branches at their base as needed during the growing season; otherwise, prune established bushes in the spring; remove half the length of the shoots.  Remove dead or damaged shoots in early summer.

Don't crowd pieris with other plants. Allow plenty of air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.

Tip:

• Plant pieris near rhododendrons and azaleas, which are part of the same family.
• Do not eat!