Tough but delicate

Viburnum trilobum (High Bush Cranberry)

If you appreciate birds, butterflies, jams, jellies and juices then you may want to consider adding the very lovely high bush cranberry to your plant collection.  At ten to twelve feet high, this multi-stemmed, upright shrub, native to the prairie woodlands, commands respect throughout all four seasons.

In spring the plant is graced with large white flower clusters which develop into edible berries during the summer.  In the past, these berries were used by native peoples in the preparation of pemmican.  Although this shrub will survive in partial shade, for the leaves to achieve the stunning burgundy fall colour, it should be planted in full sun.   Throughout winter, the brilliant red berries stand in stark contrast to the white snow, providing winter much needed interest in the garden as well as food for the winter birds.

Keep the soil evenly moist from spring to fall and mulch around the base of the plant to hold in the moisture.  Amending the soil with organic matter is also helpful in retaining moisture.  Make sure you plant in soil that drains freely. 

The best defense against potential problems such as stem borers, or aphids is to keep the plant as healthy as possible.

Springtime Shrubs

Spiraea (Spirea)

Everyone knows a spirea.  These mounded or vase forming shrubs are probably one of the most common plants in prairie home gardens. Despite their omnipresence, one suspects they are somewhat underappreciated. 

For both novice and experienced gardeners this cold hardy shrub has much to offer.  For the novice it is a reliable, not too fussy on soil type, relatively pest free and disease resistant plant whose summer blooming varieties produce flowers well into the fall.  In short it is a good performer. Within the species there is enough diversity with respect to size, bloom time, leaf texture and colour and propagation methods to offer the experienced gardener some experimental latitude.

Spring blooming spireas, like the show stopping ‘Bridal Wreath” are a bright white while the summer blooming spireas offers varying shades of pink.   Leaves with colours like lime, yellow, red, or bronze really make the plant pop.  Some spireas may be considered three season plants with leaf colour in the spring, flowers in the summer and another leaf colour in the fall. Although they prefer full sun spirea can tolerate partial shade.

Like us, spireas appreciate a good haircut.  For the summer blooming varieties prune when dormant, in late winter or early spring.    Some gardeners like to cut them to the ground for a richer leaf colour and fuller plant.  Summer blooming spireas can also be pruned throughout the season.  The spring blooming plants should be pruned after the blooms fade and before they set bud for the following year.