Growing a summersweet shrub requires placing it in a good location, adding organic matter to the soil, mulching the plant, pruning faded flowers and checking for pest infestations. You need organic matter, mulch, pruning shears and insecticidal soap.Continue Reading
Choose a location for the shrub with full or partial sunlight. Although summersweet shrubs can tolerate a variety of soil types, it thrives best in moist, slightly acidic soils.
Plant the shrub in the ground, and add organic matter, such as manure or compost, to enrich the soil.
Spread a layer of mulch around the plant that is 2 to 4 inches deep to keep the soil moist. Use wood chips, bark or pine needles.
As the plant grows, remove any flowers that are fading or past their prime. Prune if necessary.
Although summersweet shrubs have few problems with diseases and pests, look out for spider mite infestations. Spider mites are most common in hot, dry locations. Plants with proper access to moisture are less likely to suffer from this type of infestation. If you only see a few spider mites on the leaves, knock them off, or rinse off the leaves. For more severe infestations, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.