Knowledgebase

What is this plant? #763677

Asked July 24, 2021, 1:01 PM EDT

I planted this plant three years ago. The first two years I pruned it to the ground in the winter. This year is is quite big and I am wondering what it is and should I be pruning it so severely? It is about 3' tall x 1 1/2' wide. The flowers only last a short while, but the leaves stay green all summer.

Goodhue County Minnesota

Expert Response

This appears to be a double petal sweet mock orange.

See: https://extension.umn.edu/trees-and-shrubs/mockorange

We recommend that in general shrubs be pruned by 1/3 after blossoming. If they become leggy and less full, then do a prune to about 8 inches but not every year.

https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/pruning-trees-and-shrubs

For additional care tips see the following website.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/mock-orange/mock-orange-bushes.htm


MaryKay, Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor Replied July 25, 2021, 5:31 PM EDT
Thank you for identifying the shrub.  It appears to be quite compact.  Can I assume it is a variety that will stay within the 3' x 2' size, which is about the size it has been for the past two years, even when I pruned it to the ground one fall?  If it continues to get larger I may have to move to another location.  Is moving detrimental to the shrub?  When would be a good time to move it, if that becomes necessary?

I listen to the WCCO program every Saturday morning.  Thank you to the wise and helpful Master Gardeners who answer questions on that program!

Sheri

On Sun, Jul 25, 2021 at 4:31 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied July 25, 2021, 7:20 PM EDT

If you take off 1/3 every year after it blossoms, it should stay the same size.

Moving can be stressful to the shrub. Moving shrubs is best accomplished in cooler weather-early fall allows for the roots to get established.  Be sure to water it until the ground freezes if you do move it.

It’s a beautiful shrub!  Good luck!

MaryKay, Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor Replied July 25, 2021, 8:53 PM EDT

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