Photinus are popular and vigorous shrubs with an aesthetic leaf sprouting. A healthy root system is the basis for strong growth. In order for the roots to function, they need the optimal location and well thought-out care.
Glossy medlars are flat-rooted
biology and soil composition
Glossy medlars belong to the flat-rooted species. They form their roots near the soil surface. The root ball is therefore broad and has numerous branches. In addition to the main roots, which are used for anchoring in the ground, medlars form many fine roots. These fibrous roots serve to absorb water and nutrients from the substrate.
A soil with a proportion of sand or perlite is ideal. This ensures good permeability so that the water can drain off easily. The pH value plays a subordinate role. Photinus are adaptable and grow on both acidic and alkaline soils.
dangers in the ground
The roots of the medlar are sensitive and react sensitively to too much moisture in the soil. The substrate should always be well moist, as the tree, as an evergreen plant, loses water permanently and has to compensate for the deficits. Waterlogging leads to the death of the fine roots. As a result, water absorption is stopped and the leaves can die off. Water deficits also occur in winter when the ground is frozen. The damage often only shows up in the spring. In the case of intensive frost damage, a vigorous pruning down to the old wood helps.
Wet conditions in the substrate create a microclimate in which mushrooms thrive. If fungal spores have settled on the roots, rotting will increase. The fine roots die off and the leaves can no longer be adequately supplied with water. A fungal attack on the roots manifests itself in the fact that the plant loses leaves.
Care for healthy root growth
Be sure to water regularly once the soil around the shrub has dried. Penetrating watering is better than many moderate waterings. The water cycle must not come to a standstill in winter, as the evergreen leaves are constantly losing water and need replenishment. As soon as the roots in the frozen soil cannot absorb water, drought stress occurs.
Protective measures are:
- Spread insulation layer on the floor
- water abundantly before winter
- Protect leaves from evaporation.