MOP TOP® Fountain Butterfly Bush

Light: Enjoys a full sun location best. This is any spot that receives six hours or more of direct exposure to sunlight. Less exposure will result in a less vigorous plant. Soil: Needs well-draining soil, as it really resents being overly wet or soggy at any time. If planting in clay soil or soil that drains a little slowly, plant it a bit higher in the hole. This means the soil level around the rootball will be a bit lower, half an inch or so will usually suffice. Water: Very, very drought tolerant once established. Fertilizing: Apply a granular fertilizer formulated for flowering shrubs in late winter/early spring when the soil is workable. Pruning: Pruning is not necessary, as it maintains its most handsome flowing habit naturally. If pruning is necessary, only do so in spring after it has bloomed. Make cuts just about 1/4 of an inch above a bud. Dead or damaged wood can be removed at any time, just cut back to a set of leaves. Other: This plant emerges a bit later than many other garden plants. If you’re afraid it has died over the winter, have patience and watch for emerging pale green leaf buds once the temperatures are steadily warm.