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Mock oranges #751590

Asked May 23, 2021, 1:57 PM EDT

Planted mock orange shrubs about 3 or 4 years ago. Have not have any flowers. This year we have yet to prune from. prior year, have removed much surrounding the roots, increased watering and fertilized. The plants leaf out but do not flower. Any suggestions?

Denver County Colorado

Expert Response

Several years ago someone asked the same question about why their mock orange hadn't bloomed after 3 years. Here was the answer:

"Best flower will be accomplished if the plants are in full sun. Are they shaded more than a light shade?
Have the plants been pruned? If they are not pruned immediately after flowering, the flower buds for the next year may be pruned off.
Are the plants planted in a wet site? If they are, they will fail to perform as expected. The lack of flowering could indicate a plant that is not thriving because of poor site selection."

In addition mock orange doesn't usually need fertilizer. Fertilizer can cause the plant to grow a lot of leaves without setting buds.

Colorado Master Gardener, Denver County Replied May 25, 2021, 6:11 PM EDT
Thank you. The plants are in an area which does not get enough sunlight. When would be the optimal time to replant?

Thanks

On Tue, May 25, 2021 at 4:11 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied May 25, 2021, 9:45 PM EDT

It's still early enough in the season for you to transplant your mockoranges to an area better suited for them. Mockorange should be pruned in the spring after blooming so that it will set blooms for the next season. Once they are established you can cut approximately 1/3 of the old canes to the ground which will encourage new growth from the ground. Never cut back the tops of the canes. 

Colorado Master Gardener, Denver County Replied May 27, 2021, 4:57 PM EDT

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