How to Grow Bottlebrush Buckeye

Choose a planting site. Prepare the site by clearing any weeds or unwanted organic material. Bottlebrush buckeye grow best in full sun to part shade in soil that remains moist but well drained.

Dig your planting hole at least 4 times the width of the root ball and at a depth equal to the root ball.

Remove the shrub from the container and check the roots. If they seem to be growing in a circular pattern, gently spread them out before placing the shrub in the hole. If planting a balled and burlapped shrub, cut away half of the burlap from the root ball. Remove any wire or twine.

Place the buckeye in the planting hole and fill the hole with water. Allow time for the water to be absorbed by the root ball and the soil.

Backfill the original soil into the hole. Water the entire planting site again deeply.

Spread a 2- to 4-inch layer of mulch or other organic material over the entire planting site. Mulch helps to keep weeds under control and the soil to retain moisture.

The bottlebrush buckeye grows well in zones 4 through 8. Always check the USDA Hardiness Zone map to make sure a plant is suitable for your specific area. The best time to plant your buckeye is early spring. A good rule of thumb is to plant just before the trees begin to leaf out.

Feed the buckeye with a good balanced fertilizer in early November. Be sure to give it a good soaking before the ground freezes.