What To Know
- The intoxicating fragrance of Mexican orange blossom (Choisya ternata) is a true delight, often described as a blend of orange blossoms and honeysuckle.
- The best time to plant Mexican orange blossom is in the spring or fall, after the soil has warmed up or cooled down, respectively.
- Place the shrub in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
The intoxicating fragrance of Mexican orange blossom (Choisya ternata) is a true delight, often described as a blend of orange blossoms and honeysuckle. This evergreen shrub, native to Mexico and Central America, is a popular choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, fragrant addition to their landscapes. But how do you grow this beautiful and fragrant shrub? Let’s dive into the details of cultivating Mexican orange blossom in your garden.
Choosing the Right Location and Soil
Mexican orange blossom thrives in full sun or partial shade, with at least four hours of direct sunlight daily. When choosing a location, consider the mature size of the shrub, which can reach up to 8 feet tall and wide.
While adaptable to various soil types, Mexican orange blossom prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic pH (6.0 to 6.5). If your soil is heavy clay or poorly draining, amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and aeration.
Planting Your Mexican Orange Blossom
The best time to plant Mexican orange blossom is in the spring or fall, after the soil has warmed up or cooled down, respectively. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Prepare the planting hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
2. Amend the soil: Mix in compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
3. Position the shrub: Place the shrub in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
4. Backfill the hole: Fill the hole with the amended soil, gently firming it around the roots.
5. Water thoroughly: Water deeply to settle the soil and encourage root growth.
Watering and Fertilizing
Mexican orange blossom is relatively drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering is crucial during the first year after planting and during dry spells. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Fertilize your Mexican orange blossom in the spring with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula. You can also use a slow-release fertilizer for sustained nutrient release throughout the growing season.
Pruning and Shaping
Pruning Mexican orange blossom is essential for maintaining its shape and promoting vigorous growth. The best time to prune is after flowering, typically in late spring or early summer.
You can prune lightly to remove dead or crossing branches and shape the shrub. For a more compact and bushy growth habit, prune back the tips of the branches by about one-third. Avoid pruning in late summer or fall, as this can encourage new growth that may be damaged by frost.
Protecting Against Pests and Diseases
Mexican orange blossom is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, scale insects, and fungal diseases.
To prevent pest problems, inspect your shrub regularly for signs of infestation, such as sticky honeydew or tiny insects. You can use a strong jet of water to dislodge aphids or apply insecticidal soap to control scale insects. To prevent fungal diseases, ensure good air circulation around the shrub and avoid overhead watering.
Enjoying the Fragrant Blossoms
Mexican orange blossom produces clusters of small, white, star-shaped flowers that release a captivating fragrance. The flowers typically bloom in spring and summer, sometimes with a second flush of blooms in the fall.
The fragrance is most intense in the evenings, adding a delightful aroma to your garden. You can also cut the flowers and bring them indoors to enjoy their fragrance in your home.
Propagating Mexican Orange Blossom
Mexican orange blossom can be propagated through cuttings or by air layering.
Cuttings: Take stem cuttings in the spring or summer, using sharp, clean shears to cut 4-6 inches of healthy, semi-hardwood growth. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a pot filled with a rooting medium, such as perlite or vermiculite. Keep the cuttings moist and in a warm, shady location.
Air layering: This technique involves stimulating root growth on a branch while it’s still attached to the parent plant. Select a healthy branch and make a shallow cut around the bark, about 1 inch wide. Wrap the cut area with moist sphagnum moss and enclose it in plastic wrap. Keep the moss moist and wait for roots to develop, which can take several months. Once roots are established, cut the branch below the rooted area and plant it in a pot or in the ground.
Enjoying Your Fragrant Paradise
With proper care and attention, your Mexican orange blossom will thrive and reward you with its intoxicating fragrance and beautiful foliage. This low-maintenance shrub is an excellent choice for adding beauty and scent to any garden.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: How long does it take for a Mexican orange blossom to bloom?
A: It typically takes 2-3 years for a newly planted Mexican orange blossom to bloom.
Q: Can I grow Mexican orange blossom in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Mexican orange blossom in a container, but choose a pot that is large enough to accommodate its roots and provide good drainage.
Q: What are the best companion plants for Mexican orange blossom?
A: Mexican orange blossom pairs well with other fragrant shrubs, such as lavender, rosemary, and gardenia. You can also plant it with drought-tolerant perennials, such as salvia, yarrow, and dianthus.
Q: Is Mexican orange blossom deer resistant?
A: While Mexican orange blossom is generally deer resistant, deer may nibble on it if other food sources are scarce. You can deter deer by using deer repellent or planting the shrub in a well-protected area.
