How to Take Care of Mock Orange Shrubs
- 1). Evaluate the location of your mock orange shrub. Mock oranges grow best in full sunlight, although they may also be grown in moderate or partial sunlight. If your mock orange shrub refuses to bloom, North Dakota State University Extension Service suggests this may be because it isn't getting enough sun.
- 2). Check the soil. Mock orange shrubs require well-draining, moderately fertile soil. According to PlantCare.com, these shrubs should be grown in sandy loam that ranges from a pH of 6.1 to 8.5.
- 3). Fertilize infrequently. Another possible reason for a lack of flowers is an overdose of fertilizer, reports the North Dakota State University Extension Service. Ed Hume of Ed Hume Seeds recommends only fertilizing a mock orange in February or March if it shows signs of deficiencies, such as stunted growth or yellow leaves.
- 4). Water your mock orange shrub deeply every week during hot, dry weather. If your area experiences frequent rain, cut back on your watering. Keep the soil moderately moist, but not drenched.
- 5). Prune mock orange shrubs that are at least two years old. Ed Hume recommends removing about one-third of the old growth on the shrub every year after it is done flowering.