Pollination Info for Double Play Gold Spirea

Double Play Gold Spirea is a cultivar of Spiraea japonica, a perennial shrub that produces clusters of tiny flowers in early to mid-summer. The flowers are hermaphroditic, meaning they contain both male and female reproductive parts. However, the plant needs pollinators to transfer pollen between flowers to ensure fruit set and seed production.

Pollinators

The most effective pollinators for Double Play Gold Spirea are bees, particularly honeybees and native bees. Butterflies and other flying insects may also help with pollination, although to a lesser extent. Planting additional flowering plants nearby can attract more pollinators to your garden.

Flower Structure

The flowers of Double Play Gold Spirea are small, about 1/4 inch in diameter, and grow in dense clusters called corymbs. Each flower has five petals in shades of light pink to pinkish-red. The flowers are grouped densely together on short branchlets called umbels, making them more attractive to pollinators.

Pollination Process

When a pollinator lands on a flower, it brushes against the anthers (male reproductive organs) and picks up pollen. As the pollinator moves from flower to flower, it transfers the pollen to the stigma (female reproductive organ) of each flower. This transfer of pollen triggers fertilization, resulting in the formation of seeds.

Pollination Tips

• Plant Double Play Gold Spirea in full sun to encourage more flowers and attract more pollinators.
• Plant other flowering plants nearby to attract a diversity of pollinators to your garden.
• Avoid using pesticides or herbicides that can harm pollinators. Opt for chemical-free pest control methods instead.
• Regularly water and fertilize the plant to keep it healthy and producing abundant flowers.

By providing a healthy habitat for pollinators, you can help ensure the continued pollination of Double Play Gold Spirea and other flowering plants in your garden.

Double Play Gold Spirea (Double Play® Gold Spiraea japonica 'Yan' USPP 21,615) FAQ

Q: What is Double Play Gold Spirea?

Double Play Gold Spirea, also known as Double Play® Gold Spiraea japonica 'Yan' USPP 21,615, is a deciduous shrub that has vibrant gold foliage in the spring and summer. In the fall, the leaves transition to a bronze shade making an attractive contrast. It produces pink blooms sporadically through summer, ‘Double Play Gold’ is named for the intense season-long show of gold foliage.

Q: How tall does Double Play Gold Spirea grow?

Double Play Gold Spirea typically grows between 2 and 3 feet tall, and up to 3 to 4 feet wide.

Q: How often should I water Double Play Gold Spirea?

Double Play Gold Spirea prefers well-draining soil and partial to full sun. It needs moderate watering, about an inch of water per week. Water it regularly during the growing season, especially during dry spells.

Q: How often should I fertilize Double Play Gold Spirea?

Double Play Gold Spirea does not require frequent fertilization. It is beneficial to fertilize in the spring with a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer.

Q: How do I prune Double Play Gold Spirea?

Double Play Gold Spirea should be pruned once a year in early spring, before new growth appears. Remove any dead, broken, or diseased branches, and trim back a quarter to a third of the plant's total height.

Q: Is Double Play Gold Spirea deer-resistant?

Double Play Gold Spirea is generally not considered deer-resistant, as deer may browse on the leaves and flowers.

Q: Can I grow Double Play Gold Spirea in a container?

Yes, Double Play Gold Spirea can be grown in a container if you provide adequate drainage and regular watering. It is necessary to prune yearly to keep the shrub from becoming too large.

Q: Is Double Play Gold Spirea drought-tolerant?

Double Play Gold Spirea is somewhat drought-tolerant, but it prefers consistent soil moisture. It is essential to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during hot and dry periods.

Planting & Care for Double Play Gold Spirea

Planting:

1. Choose a planting site with well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
2. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and slightly deeper than the root ball.
3. Remove the shrub from its container and gently loosen any tangled roots before placing it in the hole.
4. Backfill the hole with soil and water thoroughly.

Care:

• Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system.
• Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring and again in late summer.
• Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges to control size and maintain shape.
• Deadhead spent flowers to encourage additional blooms.
• Monitor for pests and disease, treating promptly if needed.