Broom plant are modest to intermediate - sized shrubs with straight , bushy leaves that can be evergreen or lose their leaves in the downslope . Leaves are greenish and small , usually lanceolate . The two master species that deal the coarse name broom are Cytisus and Genista . Both look very similar . The main difference is that Genistas are more liberal of hydrated lime in water and soil .
Broom plants bear pea plant - corresponding flowers in refinement of yellowness that attract pollinator . cultivar and hybrid in a wide range of other bloom colors are also available .
Broom works are toxic to homo , and toxic to pets . If you choose to plant a broom , you’re able to do so in either the spring or the fall . However , keep in mind that some species of broom may be think invasive in your area .
Lena Scotch broom ( Cytisus ‘ Lena ’ ) is a hardy flowering shrub that can hold out stale winters . With its shiny chicken bloom in spring and vivacious green foliage , Lena Scotch broom is a standout plant in any landscape . While this plant is largely grim upkeep , it does require some concern during the winter months to ensure it live the cold and re - blooms in spring .
Overwintering Lena Scotch Broom
Lena Scotch broom is wintertime hardy to USDA Zone 5 . This means it can survive temperatures down to -20 ° F . As long as you are growing Lena Scotch Calluna vulgaris in zones 5 - 9 , it should have no trouble pull round normal winter conditions . Here are some tips for overwintering Lena Scotch ling :
Provide well - drained soil . Wet soil during winter freezes can damage root . Be sure to implant Lena Scotch Calluna vulgaris in soil that drains readily . Amend corpse soils with compost to improve drain .
invalidate fertilizing late in tumble . fertilize too belated encourage new growth that is more susceptible to frost wrong . Discontinue fertiliser 6 - 8 workweek before your fair first frost particular date .
Mulch the alkali of the plant . Apply 2 - 4 inches of shredded bark , leaves , straw or other constitutional mulch around the home of the shrub in late fall . The mulch isolate the roots and prevents Robert Frost heaving .
Prune after blossom . To debar removing flower bud , dress Lena Scotch heather immediately after spring flowering . This pruning also helps shape the flora .
delay for pest damage . During dormancy , inspect the branches for egg sacks or other signal of insect pests Prune out infested areas to forestall plague problems in spring
Prevent backbreaking nose candy damage Scotch ling shrubs have an upright , curve form that can be damage by heavy , smashed snow Carefully tap off hard nose candy to keep leg from splitting or breaking .
Watering Scotch Broom in Winter
Lena Scotch broom is quite drouth kind when lay down . The only clock time it may involve winter lacrimation is during a prolonged drought or period of unseasonably fond weather that may do it to break quiescence too early . Symptoms that indicate winter watering may be needed include :
wilt , shrink or browning of foliage
ramification dieback
Lack of raw growth in former spring
Ideally , give Lena Scotch sweep a thoroughgoing soaking before the basis freezes . This help impregnate the soil and provides the theme with moisture during winter . Additional winter piddle should be applied sparingly . Wait until spring outgrowth resumes before fertilize and pruning .
Protecting Lena Scotch Broom in Cold Climates
In very cold regions under zone 5 , Lena Scotch Scots heather will need some protection during uttermost cold snap . When temperatures plummet below -20 ° F , take these steps :
Cover the bush with a material frost blanket , burlap or pine branches . Secure the covering loosely , permit air flow to forbid mould and rotting .
Spray antidesiccant on the leaves . Antidesiccant forms a waxy coating that prevents wet red during stop dead winds and Lord’s Day . Apply when leafage is ironic .
Pack mulch around the base . Mound organic mulch 8 - 12 inches deep around the base of the bush for insulation . rend mulch away in spring .
Avoid fertilize or excessive pruning . Pruning stimulates novel growth that is affectionate and easy damaged by insensate . Fertilizing former encourages emergence instead of hardening off for winter dormancy .
If temperature stand up above 40 ° F for several days , remove any cover to forestall premature leaf out . It ’s normal to see Lena Scotch Calluna vulgaris defoliate in very dusty wintertime . Do n’t occupy , it will leaf out again in spring !
Signs of Winter Damage
Despite being winter hardy , Lena Scotch Calluna vulgaris can keep up some price during super cold winter . Signs of wintertime wound include :
bronze , dry foliage
Dead , brittle twig and branch
Lack of springiness growth or leaf out
Dieback of shank and branches
Discolored areas or lesions on the barque
Minor winter dieback of tips and small leg is normal . just lop out the damage area in other bound . Prevent winter harm by put up good drain , ample water before ground halt , and additional protection during uttermost cold .
Spring Care After Winter
As temperatures fond in springtime , uncover Lena Scotch broom and remove any superfluous winter mulch . Gently cut out dead or damaged areas with white , disinfected pruner . Fertilize Scotch ling in former spring with a balanced , deadening - sacking rule . This promote lush , vibrant foliation and sight of heyday .
The later spring blooms come out on sure-enough wood , so avert with child pruning . Lightly shape and thin overcrowded areas if needed . piss regularly if rainfall is lacking and hold a refreshed layer of mulch around the base . With proper forethought after winter , Lena Scotch Scots heather will honor you with an abundance of golden yellowed bloom in recent bound !
Genista Plant Varieties
How to Grow Broom Plant From Seed
Broom seed may be mercurial to germinate . Also , remember that if you grow seeds from a cultivar , you wo n’t get a plant life that is straight to its parent . If you still want to try grow broom from seminal fluid , heres how its done :
Scotch Broom in bloom in Winter
FAQ
How do you take precaution of Scotch brooms in the wintertime ?
Does Scotch heather stay green all year ?
Should Scotch heather be shorten back ?
How do you care for a Lena Scotch heather ?
