Philadelphus is commonly known as mock orange, thanks to the sweet fragrance of its flowers which closely resemble citrus blossom, appearing from early to midsummer. Best grown in full sun or partial shade and a moderately fertile, well-drained soil, this fully hardy shrub is reliable and needs very little maintenance other than a yearly prune. A classic cottage-garden backdrop shrub, the compact habit of Philadelphus also works well in urban gardens, bringing structure and visual impact to early summer displays. The nectar-rich blooms are attractive to pollinators, adding wildlife value as well as scent. Plant this shrub near a path or seating area where its fragrance can be enjoyed fully, particularly in the evening when it is strongest.

How to plant

— Philadelphus bare roots are supplied in spring for planting between February and May. Bare roots require rehydration after transit and should be dealt with soon after delivery. If you can't plant on the day of delivery, remove from the packaging and place the root in a bucket of water outside so it can soak, then plant within a week.

— Soak the roots in water for 3-6 hours prior to planting. You can plant bare root shrubs directly into borders, providing the soil is good quality and the planting space is clear and cultivated. Dig over the area, removing weeds, and then dig a hole large enough to accommodate the bare root so that the whole root system will be fully submerged after planting. The stem and branches should remain above the soil surface after planting. Ensure the hole is the correct depth so that the soil is level with the point at which the roots meet the stem.

— Improve the growing conditions by mixing in some organic matter like compost or leaf mould to the planting hole, this soft medium and additional boost of nutrients will help the roots settle in and grow. Avoid adding manure to the planting hole as this can be too rich and damage the new roots. You can add manure to the soil surface after planting if desired.

— Position the shrub in the hole with the most attractive/well branched side facing into the garden. When the shrub is in place, backfill the hole and firm down. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.

— If your borders have challenging growing conditions/poor soil (heavy clay or light sandy soil) or if the border isn't ready for planting, you can pot up your bare root shrub so it can establish before transferring into a border later in the year. Pot up into a 20-30cm temporary pot using multipurpose or soil based compost. Ensure the roots are fully submerged and the stem is exposed above the soil surface. Water thoroughly and allow it to grow-on in a sheltered position outside. The shrub can be transplanted to a border once growth is established and the plant easily comes out of the pot with the soil held together in a root ball.

— When planting into the garden, choose a position in full or partial shade with moist but well-drained soil.

— This shrub is deciduous and will lose its leaves in autumn. It is fully hardy and does not require winter protection.

— Water staright away after planting and continue watering regularly for the first year while the shrub settles in. Once established, watering should only be necessary in particularly dry spells.

Aftercare

— Philadelphus is supplied while dormant and will not usually have any leaves on arrival. Leaves will emerge in spring from around March/April.

— Keep the surrounding soil consistently moist, but well-drained. In dry spells it is better to give a good, deep watering less often, than a light sprinkle frequently.

— Prune or clip lightly, immediately after flowering, to maintain shape and encourage strong new growth. Philadelphus flower on two-year old wood, so it is important not to prune it too hard after flowering. Leave some of the new season's growth as this will produce flowers next year.

— Once established, you can remove around a third of the stems, cutting any old and woody stems right down to the base. This will prevent the shrub from becoming too dense and will improve airflower which helps to keep the shrub healthy. Also remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches to maintain an open and well-shaped habit.

— Apply a mulch of organic matter in winter or spring, to feed the shrub and help retain moisture in the soil.

Read further general instructions about planting bare-root shrubs