Instructions for the Care of a Paraguay Nightshade Tree

Planting a Paraguay Nightshade

• 1

  Select a spot that will give your Paraguay nightshade full sun for at least half the day. Prepare the spot by digging a hole slightly larger in diameter than the shrub's container, clearing the soil of all large rocks, weeds and other impediments as you dig. Place the nightshade's pot into the hole to test for the proper depth. The hole is deep enough when the pot fits perfectly into the hole, with the top of the pot aligning with ground level.

• 2

  Remove your Paraguay nightshade from its container. If the plant resists removal from its pot, water it and wait a few minutes. Shake the root ball gently to loosen any tightly bound roots, but do not pull at individual roots. Place the root ball into the hole.

• 3

  Fill in around the Paraguay nightshade with the soil you removed, mixed with compost. Commercial compost is acceptable if you do not have access to 'home grown' compost. When the soil and compost are packed into the hole, water until thoroughly moistened.

Paraguay Nightshade Care

• 4

  Check your Paraguay nightshade regularly to determine if it needs watering. When the top inch of soil is dry, it is time to water. Paraguay nightshade is drought-resistant but should receive regular watering when possible. Good drainage is essential for this shrub, so make certain that your Paraguay nightshade does not become water-logged.

• 5

  Proper feeding will help your Paraguay nightshade thrive. Select a good water-soluble, general purpose fertilizer, and include it in a watering once a month.

• 6

  Remove dead or damaged branches with a yearly pruning. Early spring is the proper time to prune. Be careful not to prune too late into the growing season, as this can be harmful to the plant.