Pieris 'Forest Flame'

Frequently asked questions

When's the best time to transplant a pieris?

The best time to transplant a pieris is after flowering, from late-spring to early summer. Dig a trench around and beneath the rootball and lift the plant out of the ground with as much of the rootball intact as possible. Replant immediately in a prepared planting hole, ensuring it sits at the same depth it was planted previously. Water thoroughly and continue watering weekly for several weeks, especially if conditions become dry.

Help! The leaves of my pieris have brown edges

Browning around the edge of the leaves coulld be caused by a number of factors, including too much sun and a lack of water. A lack of water is particularly likely if your pieris is growing in a pot – remember that the surface area of pots is never sufficient to absorb enough rain to meet the plants' needs – you will always need to provide additional water. If your pieris is receiving too much sun you may need to move it or provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.

Help! What should I do with my leggy pieris?

Pieris responds well to hard pruning. Cut the whole shrub back by around half – you will soon see new sprouts quickly grow from the old wood. This should improve the shape of the pieris and also its flowering potential. 

What companions should I plant with my pieris?

Pieris looks good when underplanted with spring bulbs such as snowdrops, crocus and English bluebells, as well as early flowering primrose and California poppies. Woodland plants like ferns, hostas, phlox, astilbe, and heuchera can be planted in the shade of taller pieris varieties.