Growing Lonicera (Honeysuckle): Vines & Shrubs for Fragrance

About Honeysuckles

Many species: shrubs and twining climbers. All fast, vigorous, adaptable, usually sweetly fragrant. Climbers on fences/supports or trained as small trees. Shrubs for borders, hedges, ground covers.

Care

• Light: Full sun or partial shade.
• Soil: Average garden soil.
• Water: Thoroughly after planting; weekly soak in summer unless rain >1″. Established prefer even moisture. Water sparingly in winter.
• Fertilizer: No fertilizer at planting or first year. Established: light balanced granular (5-10-10, 10-10-10, organic) once in early spring.
• Maintenance: Easy. Prevent mildew with air circulation. Climbers blooming on old wood (e.g., L. periclymenum): prune right after flowering. Trim hedges twice in summer. Established shrubs: remove ⅕–⅓ old canes to base after flowering. Rare insect/disease issues.