MOERINGS 2
ActiveSkimmia japonica Thunb. · Japanese skimmia
Adrianus Jozeph Moerings
Cultivation
Skimmia japonica Thunb. as a potted crop
Skimmia japonica Thunb.
Growing Skimmia japonica as a potted crop requires a two-year production cycle, substrate pH control of 4.8–5.3, and consideration of the dioecious nature of cultivars to obtain decorative buds or fruits.
In the reference 3 varieties crop Japanese skimmia, where this is mentioned in the description.
Skimmia japonica as a potted crop is characterized by slow growth, requiring up to two years to produce a marketable specimen. To form a compact, dome-shaped habit, pruning is necessary, which must be performed no later than June 20, as later dates hinder the formation of flower buds for the following season.
The plant is acid-loving and requires a substrate with a pH range of 4.8–5.3. The root system is sensitive to the concentration of salts in the soil solution, which necessitates strict control of the substrate's electrical conductivity. Regular fertilization is mandatory during the growing season, which should be ceased at the end of summer to prepare the shrub for dormancy.
Production is complicated by the dioecious nature of most cultivars: male forms are valued for the decorativeness of their inflorescences, while female forms are valued for berry production, which requires the presence of both types of plants. Skimmia prefers partial shade and cool growing conditions, and its leathery leaves provide high resistance to temporary disruptions in the irrigation regimen.
General information about the subject — on the page Pot culture.
Varieties of Japanese skimmia mentioned in the description
Selection based on the description text, not on official evaluation: these data are absent from registers. For specific variety details, please refer to its profile.