Shrubs, also known as bushes fall in the horticultural category instead of just the botanical category, such as a woody plant like that of a tree. However, while there are similarities, shrubs are lower to the ground with multiple stems. Keep in mind that smaller and lower shrubs to include periwinkle, thyme, and lavender are often referred to as sub-shrubs. Regardless, unlike a tree, shrubs are distinguished by the multiple branches that come from close to the ground, as well as reaching a mature height of 12 feet of less.

Shrubs are a wonderful way to enhance the appearance of your home. You can use flowering shrubs underneath windows in the front of the house to balance out the appearance while also providing beautiful color. If you have a side of the home where grass or other types of plants are difficult to grow, then perhaps one or two shrubs would be the perfect solution to spruce things up. You can also use shrubs as borders around decks, outdoor gardens, or even to provide privacy between neighbors or help reduce traffic noise. The challenge comes in trying to choose since you have so many incredible options, which you are about to discover.

Although you will need to learn about proper care specific to the type of shrub you buy, most are cared for much the same as trees.

Pruning

Prune large, overgrown shrubs during fall and winter. Thinning ( rather than shearing them at the top) will reduce the plant's size without affecting its overall shape.

Thinning is especially important for flowering shrubs. You can remove some stalks or branches without significantly reducing spring flowering. Plants such as lilac and forsythia, as well as flowering trees, already have formed their flowers for next year. These flowers are tightly encased in buds that, often, are near the tip of the plant. Shearing such plants will reduce, if not destroy, next year's bloom. That's why you should remove only dead, dying or interfering branches at this time of year. To reduce height, cut some major canes completely without pruning the remainder of the plant.

Watering

During the first growing season, a small sized shrub transplanted from a one gallon container will require 4 to 6 gallons per week. Once established, small shrubs will grow well on 2 gallons per week. Larger shrubs may need as much as 10 gallons per week. True low water use shrubs may require less water than this.

In dry winters, all shrubs will benefit from winter watering from October through March. Apply 5 gallons two times per month for a newly planted shrub. Small established shrubs (less than 3 feet tall) should receive 5 gallons monthly. Large established shrubs (more than 6 feet) will require 18 gallons on a monthly basis. Decrease amounts to account for precipitation. Water within the drip line of the shrub and around the base.

Shrubs vs Trees

Shrubs add character, shape, and color to a garden, front yard, or backyard area, which can create charm and sophistication. The advantage to choosing shrubbery over trees is that they will mature quickly while staying hardy and living as long as trees.

Spring

Planting