Physocarpus Growing Guide

 

Common Name Ninebark 
Genus  Physocarpus 
Species P. opulifolius 
Family Rosaceae
Life Cycle  Deciduous Shrub 
Bundle Size  10 bare roots per bundle 
Care All of these plants will ship to you from Vermont in early April. They will be just coming out of dormancy. You may see swelling buds or a bit of new growth, but in general they will be in a dormant state and may look a little dead. Don't worry! They will wake up.

You may see a bit of mold on the roots but this is completely normal. Simply wash it off and plant immediately. As a precaution you can treat the roots with a fungicide or biofungicide, but this isn't necessary. Small broken branches are also of little concern. Just prune off any broken bits and the plant will recover quickly. The root system is the important part at this stage in the game.

If you can't plant immediately on arrival store your bare roots in the cooler. The cold will delay their growth. Keep them from freezing. You can either pot them into 1 gallon pots or plant them directly into your prepared soil. Just make sure to plant them within a few days of arrival. They are waking up and are ready to grow, and they will decline quickly if they are not given soil, water and sunshine.

This is a carefully orchestrated process to get plants quickly from their storage conditions to you so please do your part and be ready to plant them on arrival. There is no reason that these plants will experience any stress if you prepare for their arrival.
Netting / Staking Not necessary 
Temperature Range Hardy to zone 4
Spacing 3' x 3'
Soil Preference All soil types 
Light  Full sun is preferred but light shade is tolerated.
Pruning Mature height of 5-6 feet, prune to shape as desired. Flowers on one year old wood. 
When to Plant Fall
Harvesting Brilliant red fruit comes in July-August but the foliage can be harvested anytime. If cutting stems with fruit, expect 0 stems in year 1, 3 stems in year 2, 8 stems in year 3, 12 stems in year 4 and 15 stems in year 5+. Foliage can be cut every year, but if you cut all of the stems off a bush one year it will not have any flowers or fruit the following season. 
Post Harvest Care Cut stems should immediately be placed into cool water. Expect a vase life of up to two weeks. 
Diseases / Insects No significant pests or disease. 
Bailey's Notes

Ninebark is a standout foliage plant for flower farmers, offering multi-season interest and exceptional versatility in floral design. Its striking, lobed leaves come in an array of colors, bringing rich texture and contrast to bouquets and arrangements. In addition to its decorative foliage, ninebark’s strong, woody stems provide structure and durability, ensuring a long vase life.

Growers love ninebark for its fast growth, low maintenance, and adaptability to various climates. As an added bonus, it produces delicate spring blooms and decorative seed heads, extending its usefulness throughout the season. With its bold color palette, ease of care, and enduring value in the cut flower market, ninebark is an essential crop for growers looking to elevate their offerings.
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