How Much Do You Water a Midnight Wine Weigela?

Growing Conditions

• Midnight Wine weigela is hardy between U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 8. It tolerates a wide range of growing conditions and soil types, but blooms best in full sun. Water weigelas more in dry, windy climates than humid, mild regions. Midnight Wine weigelas planted in full sun need more water than those planted in a shrub border, or in partial shade.

Soil Types

• Midnight Wine weigela will grow in clay, sand or loam soils, although it does not tolerate water-logged soil. Water sandy soils frequently and shallowly; water clay soils infrequently, but deeply. Amend soils that don't drain well with compost or peat moss before planting Midnight Wine weigela.

General Recommendations

• Plant young weigela shrubs in the spring and water them two to three times per week for the first summer. Thereafter, water weigelas weekly, especially in dry climates. Weigelas that sit at the edge of a lawn may not need additional watering if the lawn is irrigated weekly. Scorched leaves or wilting may indicate that the shrub isn't getting enough water.

Alternatives

• Midnight Wine weigelas are a hybrid variety, bred for improved foliage and flower appearance. They have a compact form, rarely reaching more than 5 feet high. However, if you live in an area with water restrictions, consider Purple-leaf sand cherry instead. This shrub has similar attributes, including purple foliage, but is more drought tolerant, once established. Drought-tolerant shrubs with green foliage include lilacs, viburnums, serviceberry and butterfly bush.