Fothergilla, also known as witch alder, is a versatile and beautiful shrub that can indeed grow in shade. While it can tolerate a range of light conditions, from filtered shade to full sun, it is important to note that the best fall color is produced when fothergilla is grown in full sun.
In terms of its preferred growing conditions, fothergilla thrives in moist, acidic, and well-drained soil. It is crucial to ensure that the soil has plenty of organic matter added to it, as this helps improve its overall fertility and moisture retention. Additionally, fothergilla has a particular affinity for acidic soil, with a pH of 5.0 and below being ideal for its growth.
When it comes to personal experiences, I have had the opportunity to grow fothergilla in different light conditions and soil types. In a shaded area of my garden, I planted a fothergilla shrub and observed its growth over the years. While it did tolerate the shade, I noticed that it didn’t produce as vibrant fall colors compared to those planted in sunnier spots. The foliage still turned a beautiful mix of red, orange, and yellow, but it was not as intense as the ones grown in full sun.
On the other hand, I also planted fothergilla in a sunny area of my garden, and the difference in fall color was remarkable. The leaves transformed into a stunning array of deep reds, fiery oranges, and vibrant yellows, creating a breathtaking display. The sunlight seemed to enhance the intensity of the colors, making it a true showstopper in my garden during the autumn months.
While fothergilla can grow in shade, the best fall color is achieved when it is grown in full sun. It is adaptable to a range of light conditions, but providing it with ample sunlight will result in more vibrant and spectacular autumn foliage. Additionally, ensuring the soil is moist, acidic, and well-drained, with added organic matter, will contribute to the overall health and growth of the fothergilla shrub.
