Plant young ericaceous plants

Where to plant ericaceous bushes?

In nature, most ericaceous plants grow in undergrowth or at the edge of woodlands, so they prefer a semi-shaded position, protected from the scorching rays of the sun and cold winds. Ideally, plant them at the base of deciduous trees or near a wall to create a mild microclimate. In borders, as part of a mass planting, or even in pots, ericaceous bushes will thrive alongside other acidophilous plants such as ferns or hydrangeas. Just be sure to enrich the soil with acidic soil mix if necessary to ensure their proper development.

In which soil should they be planted?

Ericaceous trees and bushes thrive in cool, rich, light, humus-bearing, and acidic soil. The soil pH should be between 4.5 and 6.5. Many of them, such as heathers, azaleas, and rhododendrons, have a dense but shallow root system. As a result, they are susceptible to prolonged periods of drought. This is why ample watering during dry spells is recommended. Furthermore, this root system is not very strong, which is why it is essential to lighten heavy soils with draining materials (gravel, pouzzolana, clay balls) at planting. Calcareous soils with a pH above 7.5 cause yellowing of the foliage in these bushes, known as chlorosis. Lime prevents the assimilation of iron and slows down photosynthesis, which weakens the plant and often leads to its death.

When to plant ericaceous bushes?

The ideal period is in autumn, from September to November. This season offers perfect conditions: the soil is still warm enough to encourage rooting before winter arrives, and autumn rains provide good natural hydration. Autumn planting allows bushes to settle in well and to grow vigorously in the following spring. However, it is also possible to plant in spring, between March and May, especially in regions with harsh winters. In this case, particular attention must be paid to watering to compensate for drier periods and ensure good recovery. On the other hand, it is better to avoid planting in summer, as heat and drought can compromise rooting and weaken the plant.

How to plant ericaceous bushes?

• Dig a planting hole with a volume three times greater than that of the pot to allow for proper root development.
• Soak the root ball in rainwater or non-calcareous water for a few minutes to thoroughly moisten it.
• Prepare a mixture consisting of 1/4 turf, 1/4 leaf mould, 1/4 gravel or pumice to improve drainage, and 1/4 good soil.
• Place part of this substrate in the planting hole.
• Install the bush in the centre of the planting hole ensuring the collar is level with the soil.
• Fill in with the prepared mixture, lightly compact the soil, and water generously.
• Mulch around the base with pine bark or dead leaves to retain soil moisture in summer.

In heavy and slightly calcareous soil, it is still possible to plant heather plants provided the soil is carefully prepared:

• Dig a pit of at least 1 m³ (1 m in length, width, and depth) and line the bottom and sides with planting felt to block the rise of lime.
• Fill the pit with a balanced mixture of 1/3 acidica soil mix or turf, 1/3 potting soil, and 1/3 topsoil.
• Dig a planting hole, plant your bush in the centre and fill in with the substrate.
• Water generously with rainwater.
• Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged to protect the roots from rot.
• Every autumn, cover the soil with a mulch of dead leaves or pine needles to enrich and acidify the soil.

Like its cousin the Rhododendron, the Magnolia is a heather shrub that absolutely requires acidic soil.

How to care for ericaceous bushes?