Fertilizer for Hall's Honeysuckle - Knowledgebase Question

San Francisco, CA
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Question by camivox
June 28, 1999
I recently purchased a 4' 5-gallon Hall's Honeysuckle for my balcony. I planted it in a 12" diameter, 12" tall pot as per directions. The leaves are yellowing and the flowers die off very quickly. I've fed it twice with Miracle gro; does it need Miracid? I can't find any info about its soil preference. Also is the pot big enough to sustain its 5' trellis coverage?


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Answer from NGA
June 28, 1999
Lonicera japonica 'Halliana', or Hall's Honeysuckle is the most vigorous and widely grown groundcover type honeysuckle. It's generally used as a soil erosion controlling groundcover, climbing to 15' and covering 150 square feet. It would feel far more comfortable in an 18"-24" pot during its youth. Hall's takes dryness better than other honeysuckles, so you may be overwatering. Hold back on water until the top inch of soil is dry. It's never a good idea to feed a sick plant, so hold off on additional fertilizer applications until growth returns to normal color. Honeysuckles aren't fussy about soil acidity or alkalinity. They like average, well-draining soil.

I'd transplant into a larger pot and mix some potting soil in with some garden soil rather than using either one alone. Potting soil will provide quick drainage and garden soil will give the vigorous roots a firm footing. Water well after transplanting, then wait until the soil begins to dry out before watering again. Be sure to place your plant in full sunshine or light afternoon shade. Too little light will also cause yellowing leaves and blossom drop.
Hope the above helps your plant become strong and healthy.

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