Kuril tea, or Potentilla, is a medicinal plant that looks very decorative. This highly branched shrub reaches 1,5 m in height and is completely covered with bright yellow flowers in the second half of summer.
Cinquefoil is propagated by seeds, layering, cuttings, cuttings and root suckers. Depending on this, the method of planting is also different. For novice gardeners, it is better to simply purchase young seedlings.
There is nothing difficult in planting and growing Kuril tea
First you need to decide on the variety of Potentilla and, depending on this, look for a suitable place. But most varieties prefer well-lit areas with fertile and light soil. Heavy clay soil is not suitable for growing this shrub.
Planting is best done in the morning or evening. The size of the pit should be slightly larger than the size of the earthen lump. At the bottom, it is advisable to make drainage – a small layer of pebbles or brick fragments. With a dense group planting, the distance between the bushes should be 70 cm. The substrate can be prepared independently by mixing leafy soil, humus and coarse sand. The root collar should remain at ground level. Plantings need to be watered and mulched with peat.
Cinquefoil is undemanding to growing conditions, but still responds well to fertilizing with mineral fertilizers. In dry and hot summers, it is necessary to monitor soil moisture. The soil should not dry out, for this it is better to mulch the soil around the bush with leaves, bark or straw.
To make the shrub look more attractive, you need to cut it off in time, forming a beautiful and compact bush. It is advisable to prune on cloudy days, shortening the shoots by 10 cm. Forming can be carried out throughout the summer or in the spring. Cinquefoil perfectly tolerates haircuts and retains an attractive appearance for a long time.
Cinquefoil very rarely gets sick and does not suffer from pests
The land around the plant must be periodically loosened and weeded, removing weeds. In the first winter, it is advisable to cover young plants with a thick layer of mulch. Adult plants hibernate under the snow without shelter. Even if some branches freeze, you just need to cut them in the spring. The shrub forms a mass of new shoots within a short time.
The plant is completely unpretentious to care for and does not require a lot of effort, so it can be recommended for novice gardeners.