Companion Planting with Little Henry Sweetspire

The Beauty of Little Henry Sweetspire

If you're looking for a shrub that can add color and interest to your garden while also attracting pollinators like butterflies and bees, look no further than Little Henry sweetspire. This deciduous shrub is known for its delicate white flowers, which bloom in early summer, as well as its vibrant fall foliage.

But did you know that Little Henry sweetspire can also benefit from companion planting? By pairing this shrub with other plants that thrive in similar growing conditions, you can create a beautiful and harmonious landscape that supports the health and growth of all your plants.

Here are some tips on companion planting with Little Henry sweetspire:

Companion Plants for Little Henry Sweetspire

1. Blueberries

Blueberries are an ideal companion plant for Little Henry sweetspire because they both prefer acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. Plus, the blueberries' shallow root system won't compete with Little Henry's roots, so they can grow happily side by side.

How to Plant:

Plant blueberry bushes around the base of the Little Henry shrub, leaving enough space for both plants to grow. You can also mix peat moss into the soil to help maintain the acidity levels.

Care Tips:

Make sure to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during the hot summer months. And don't forget to prune your blueberry bushes regularly to keep them healthy and productive.

2. Hostas

Hostas are a great companion plant for Little Henry sweetspire because they both prefer partial shade and moist soil. Plus, the hostas' large leaves can provide a nice contrast to the delicate flowers of the Little Henry shrub.

How to Plant:

Plant hostas around the base of the Little Henry shrub, making sure to leave enough space for both plants to grow. You can also mix compost into the soil to help retain moisture.

Care Tips:

Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during the hot summer months. And be sure to keep an eye out for slugs, which love to feed on hosta leaves.

3. Coral Bells

Coral bells, also known as Heuchera, are another great companion plant for Little Henry sweetspire because they both prefer well-draining soil and partial shade. Plus, coral bells come in a wide range of colors, so you can choose a variety that complements the white flowers of Little Henry.

How to Plant:

Plant coral bells around the base of the Little Henry shrub, making sure to leave enough space for both plants to grow. You can also mix perlite or sand into the soil to improve drainage.

Care Tips:

Water your coral bells regularly, especially during dry spells. And be sure to deadhead the spent flowers to encourage new growth.

FAQs

1. How tall does Little Henry sweetspire get?

Little Henry sweetspire typically grows to be about 3-4 feet tall and wide, making it a great choice for smaller gardens or container planting.

2. When should I prune my Little Henry sweetspire?

You can prune your Little Henry sweetspire in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. This will help promote healthy growth and a more compact shape.

3. How often should I water my Little Henry sweetspire?

Little Henry sweetspire prefers moist soil, so be sure to water it regularly during dry spells. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot and other problems.

4. Can I grow Little Henry sweetspire in a container?

Yes, Little Henry sweetspire can be grown in a container as long as the pot is large enough to accommodate its roots and you use a well-draining soil mix.

5. How do I propagate Little Henry sweetspire?

You can propagate Little Henry sweetspire by taking softwood cuttings in the summer and rooting them in moist soil or water. You can also divide an established plant in the spring or fall.