Fragrant and fair

Press, 20 December 1985, Page 12

Fragrant and fair

GARDENING

by

M.Lusty

The fragrance of the mock orange blossoms is unmistakable just now as the pure white flowers reach their peak. Identifying the plants specifically is, however, a rather more complicated matter. Although there are more than 70 species of Philadelphus, all deciduous shrubs easy to grow and maintain, it is predominantly the hybrids which are grown. Despite all this, few of these hybrids seem to have attracted attention in this part of the world. P. ‘Virgi-

nal,’ illustrated here; a semi-double which can become quite large unless cared for, is one of the most popular in New Zealand. Flowers are produced on

previous season’s growth. In order to encourage new development from as low down on the stock as possible, and to contain size, pruning should be carried out as soon as flowering is over.",

Spent shoots should be cut right back, but each shrub must be treated in this way according to its own dictates.

In the first few years very little pruning may be desirable, but with full establishment annual attention is best for all concerned.