Witch hazel is a very hardy plant. Unlike most flowering plants, witch hazel requires cold temperatures to produce its eye-catching yellow blooms. This makes these plants a real show-stopper in a sparkling winter landscape. Witch hazel plants have exceptional fragrance, though the flowers are not as showy as some other plants. Bright green leaves adorn these shrubs in the summer and turn yellow or yellow-orange in the fall. Interestingly, the fruit and flowers appear at the same time; the fruit from the prior year’s flowers matures while the new flowers bloom. Native to North America, this plant was used by some Native Americans for medicinal purposes. These shrubs are resistant to most pests and diseases. Deer, aphids, leaf spots, or powdery mildew may attack witch hazel shrubs, but they do not normally cause extensive damage.
Light
Full to partial sun is ideal for witch hazel plants. Though they usually prefer full sun, partial shade is best in hot climates with intense afternoon sunshine.
Soil
Witch hazel likes rich, loamy, moist soil conditions, but it is quite hardy and can adapt to differing conditions. These plants can acclimate to both acidic and alkaline soil pH levels, although acidic to neutral soil is best. Good drainage and moist conditions are essential for healthy witch hazel plants. Try adding a layer of mulch on top of the soil to retain moisture.
Water
Consistent moisture is preferred by this shrub, but it does not do well in soggy soil. Regular watering is essential for young, establishing plants. Once established, natural rainfall should provide enough water for witch hazel shrubs. However, be sure to water these plants any time there is a drought. If the top of the soil feels dry to the touch, it may be time for additional water.
Temperature and Humidity
Witch hazel is unique in that it flowers during the cold winter months. It is tolerant of a wide range of conditions from USDA zones 3 to 9, thriving in both cold and hot temperatures. Moderate humidity levels are preferred. Witch hazel does not do well in dry, arid conditions, but too much moisture can encourage fungal problems, such as powdery mildew.
Fertilizer
Adding compost to the soil not only balances the moisture retention and draining ability but also adds loads of nutrients to the soil, resulting in rich, loamy soil that is ideal for witch hazel. Throughout the summer months, well-balanced, liquid fertilizer can be added monthly for extra nutrients.
Pruning
Pruning is not required, but the occasional trim-up can help maintain a clean shape and encourage blooming. Prune after the shrub is done blooming to encourage the growth of next year’s buds. Remove any suckering offshoots at the base to keep this plant clean and tidy. Witch hazel branches can also be trimmed off right before blooming and brought indoors to bloom.
How to Grow Witch Hazel from Seed
Witch hazel is often propagated from seed, but this process requires a lot of patience. Witch hazel seeds can take up to two years before they germinate. To get seeds started, they must experience the heat and cold of both winter and summer. You can plant these outdoors or mimic these conditions indoors. Propagating witch hazel through cuttings is another option for starting these plants, but it is quite difficult and usually yields little success for the casual gardener.
Potting and Repotting Witch Hazel
Witch hazel can be grown in a pot, though it will eventually need to be planted in the ground if you want the plant to reach its full height. Container-kept witch hazel shrubs are perfect for smaller garden spaces and can be moved during the summer to make room for summer-blooming plants. Once the witch hazel outgrows its pot, move it to a larger pot size or plant it in the ground. When doing this, try not to disturb the roots as witch hazel does not handle transplanting well. It is best to do this in the spring.
Overwintering Witch Hazel
With its unique winter flowers, witch hazel thrives in the cold winter months. To care for witch hazel throughout the winter, occasionally check the plant for any damage caused by rabbits or deer. If damage occurs, a protective barrier can be placed around the plant, such as chicken wire or hardware cloth.
