Controlling Scotch Broom How To Get Rid Of Scotch Broom

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Table of Contents

1. What is a Broom Plant?
2. Where to Plant Broom Plants?
3. How to Water Broom Plants?
4. How to Fertilize Broom Plants?
5. When and How to Prune Broom Plants?

What is a Broom Plant?

Broom plants are shrubs that belong to the Fabaceae family. They are also known as Scotch broom, common broom, or Irish broom. Broom plants are native to Europe, but they are also found in other parts of the world, including North America and Australia. They grow up to 10 feet tall and have bright yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months. Broom plants are hardy and drought-tolerant, making them a popular choice for gardens in dry climates.

There are several varieties of broom plants, including Cytisus scoparius, Cytisus racemosus, and Cytisus x praecox. Each variety has its own unique characteristics and requirements for growth.

Where to Plant Broom Plants?

Broom plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil. They can grow in a variety of soil types, but they do best in sandy or loamy soil. Broom plants are not tolerant of wet soil, so it is important to ensure that the soil drains well.

Before planting broom plants, it is important to prepare the soil. Remove any weeds or rocks from the planting area, and till the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches. Mix in some organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to improve the soil's fertility and drainage.

Broom plants can be planted in the fall or spring. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the plant's root ball, and plant the broom plant at the same depth it was growing in its container. Water the plant thoroughly after planting, and then water it deeply once a week for the first few months to help it establish its roots.

How to Water Broom Plants?

Broom plants are drought-tolerant, but they still need regular watering, especially during the first few months after planting. Water the plant deeply once a week, applying enough water to saturate the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches.

After the plant has become established, you can reduce the frequency of watering. Broom plants can go several weeks without water, but they will perform best if they receive a deep watering once every two to three weeks during the growing season.

It is important to avoid overwatering broom plants, as this can lead to root rot and other problems. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, and do not water the plant if the soil is still moist.

How to Fertilize Broom Plants?

Broom plants do not require a lot of fertilizer, but they will benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring. Use a fertilizer that is low in nitrogen, as too much nitrogen can cause the plant to produce too much foliage at the expense of flowers.

You can also feed broom plants with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure. Spread a layer of organic matter around the base of the plant in the spring, and then water it in well.

It is important not to over-fertilize broom plants, as this can cause them to grow too quickly and become leggy. Stick to a light application of fertilizer once a year, and feed the plant with organic matter as needed.

When and How to Prune Broom Plants?

Broom plants should be pruned in the late spring or early summer, after they have finished blooming. Pruning broom plants will help to maintain their shape and encourage them to produce more flowers.

To prune broom plants, use sharp pruning shears or loppers to remove any dead or damaged branches. Then, trim back the remaining branches by about one-third of their length. This will help to promote new growth and encourage the plant to produce more flowers.

It is important not to prune broom plants too heavily, as this can damage the plant and reduce its vigor. Stick to light pruning, and avoid removing more than one-third of the plant's branches in a single year.

Conclusion

Broom plants are hardy, drought-tolerant shrubs that are easy to grow in a variety of soil types. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil, and they require regular watering during the first few months after planting. Broom plants benefit from a light application of fertilizer in the spring, and they should be pruned lightly in the late spring or early summer to maintain their shape and encourage them to produce more flowers.