How to Make Viburnum Flourish

Select a sunny location that receives at least six hours of sunlight to grow viburnum. It grows well in shadier sites, but will flourish in full sun. However, in hot climates, a few hours of shade in the afternoon is ideal.

Amend the soil with compost, peat moss, leaf mold or another form of organic material so the soil contains at least 10 percent organic matter. In general, amend an area that is two or three times as wide as the viburnum's container and just as deep.

Irrigate viburnum after planting, then one or two times a week the first year while it becomes established in its new space. In subsequent years, water during hot, dry spells. During hot, dry summers, watering it once a week might be necessary. Always water the shrub with 1 inch of water, covering the entire area under the canopy.

Spread 2 inches of mulch, such as straw, pine needles or wood chips, around the viburnum to keep weeds under control and help retain moisture. Apply 1 inch of compost each spring under the mulch to add nutrients to the soil. Replenish the mulch if necessary at this time. Spread the mulch and compost to the edge of the canopy, but keep them 2 inches from the stem to help prevent fungus, rot and diseases.

Prune broken, damaged or diseased stems back to healthy growth any time of the year. Thin out an overgrown viburnum in early spring, cutting branches back just above the branch unions. Shape and shear a viburnum after blooming in spring or early summer. Always use pruning shears that have been cleaned with rubbing alcohol, diluted bleach or a disinfectant to prevent diseases from spreading in the landscape.