Native Plants
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Monday - July 02, 2012
From: Houston, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Propagation, Shrubs
Title: Is slow growth of young Tx mountain laurel normal?
Answered by: Guy Thompson
QUESTION:
My Texas mountain laurel is 2 or 3 years old and is about 4 feet tall. It seems quite healthy but has grown very little, if any, and has never bloomed. Is this normal? Although I don't want it to grow fast, I would like to see it bloom. Thanks, Jamie DANSWER:
Yes, it is normal for Sophora secundiflora (Texas mountain laurel) to grow very slowly for the first 2-3 years. I believe that if you keep the soil somewhat moist and fertilize the shrub in late winter it will begin to show stronger growth next year. It may not bloom for another year of so. Once it reaches 5-6 feet in height its growth rate and bloom production will be noticeably greater. Texas mountain laurel is such a beautiful plant that the wait will be well worthwhile.
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