Pollination Information for Gro-Low Sumac (Rhus aromatica 'Gro-Low')

Gro-Low Sumac is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the cashew family, Anacardiaceae. It is a popular landscaping plant, thanks to its striking foliage, beautiful flowers and the fact that it is low-maintenance. When it comes to pollination, here's what you need to know:

Pollination Method

Gro-Low Sumac is pollinated by bees, butterflies and other insects.

Flowering time

Gro-Low Sumac produces clusters of small, yellowish-green flowers in spring. The flowering period typically runs from April to May, but this can vary depending on climate and growing conditions.

Pollen Production

Gro-Low Sumac produces pollen that is used to fertilize the female flowers, which in turn will produce fruits. The pollen is light and easily dispersed by wind.

Cross-Pollination

Gro-Low Sumac is not self-fertile, meaning that it requires cross-pollination from another plant of the same species to produce fruit. This is because each plant produces either male or female flowers, and both are not present on the same plant.

Attracting Pollinators

To attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to your Gro-Low Sumac, ensure that the plant is in a sunny location, with well-drained soil. It's also a good idea to provide a source of water nearby, and to avoid using pesticides, which can harm pollinators.

Fruit Development

After the female flowers on Gro-Low Sumac are fertilized, they will develop into small, red fruits, which ripen in late summer. These fruits are a valuable source of food for birds and other wildlife.

Overall, Gro-Low Sumac is a beautiful, low-maintenance plant that can add visual interest to any landscaping project, while also providing an important source of food for pollinators and wildlife.

Gro-Low Sumac (Rhus aromatica 'Gro-Low') FAQs:

What is Gro-Low Sumac?

Gro-Low Sumac is a low-growing, spreading shrub that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. It is a variety of the Rhus aromatica species that is known for its excellent tolerance of different soil types, drought, and poor growing conditions. Gro-Low Sumac is also popular among gardeners and homeowners for its exceptional border and ground cover qualities.

How does Gro-Low Sumac look like?

Gro-Low Sumac has an attractive appearance all year round. In spring, it produces yellowish-green flowers before the leaves emerge. The foliage is glossy and dark green in summer and turns to bright red, yellow, and orange in fall. Gro-Low Sumac also has a woody stem with a rough, brownish-grey bark that peels in thin flakes.

How does Gro-Low Sumac grow?

Gro-Low Sumac is a low-maintenance shrub that grows up to 24 inches tall and 6 feet wide. It has a spreading habit and can form a dense mat of branches up to 2 feet deep, making it an excellent ground cover. Gro-Low Sumac prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is adaptable to a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, and can also thrive in dry soils.

How do I plant Gro-Low Sumac?

Gro-Low Sumac is easy to plant and establish. Here are some steps to follow:

• Choose a well-draining site that receives full sun or partial shade.
• Prepare the soil by removing any weeds or grass and amending the soil with organic matter if necessary.
• Dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball of the plant.
• Place the plant in the hole and backfill with the soil, gently tamping the soil around the roots.
• Water the plant thoroughly and mulch around the base to retain moisture.

How do I care for Gro-Low Sumac?

Gro-Low Sumac is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care once established. Here are some tips to help it thrive:

• Water the plant regularly during the first growing season until it establishes roots.
• Mulch around the base to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
• Prune the plant in late winter to early spring to promote new growth and maintain a desired shape.
• Fertilize with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

Is Gro-Low Sumac invasive?

No, Gro-Low Sumac is not invasive. Unlike other species of the Rhus genus such as the poison ivy (Rhus radicans), Gro-Low Sumac does not produce an irritating oil that can cause skin rash or respiratory problems. Gro-Low Sumac is also non-invasive, and its spreading habit can be controlled by regular pruning.

Planting & Care for Gro-Low Sumac (Rhus aromatica 'Gro-Low')

Planting

• Choose a location with well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
• Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and slightly shallower than the depth of the root ball.
• Place the root ball in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down lightly as you go to remove any air pockets.
• Water thoroughly.

Care

• Water deeply once a week, unless there is significant rainfall.
• Mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Prune in late winter or early spring to shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
• Fertilization is unnecessary but you can add a layer of compost around the base of the plant in the spring.
• Gro-Low Sumac is resistant to most diseases and pests, but keep an eye out for any signs of infection or infestation and take action accordingly.