Mahonias are elegant shrubs admired for their low maintenance and versatility. They offer eye-catching structure in the landscape and vibrant color all year round, ranging from yellow winter blooms to evergreen leaves and attractive blue spring berries. A standout variety is the ‘Soft Caress’ Mahonia from the Southern Living Plant Collection, known for its unique slender and feathery foliage that adds a delightful texture to any garden. Despite its delicate appearance, ‘Soft Caress’ mahonia is tough like its counterparts with coarser leaves. These plants can withstand heat, drought, and poor soil conditions as long as there is proper drainage. They are also resilient to pollution, making them a great choice for urban environments. Additionally, their deer resistance makes them suitable for suburban and rural settings.
Many mahonias bloom early in Southern gardens, including ‘Soft Caress’, which blooms from late fall to winter in the Deep South and mid-winter in cooler regions. The yellow flowers stand tall above the foliage and attract various pollinators, followed by clusters of blue berry-like fruits that attract birds. Unlike other mahonias that can be invasive due to bird dispersal of seeds, ‘Soft Caress’ fruits are seedless, making them wildlife-friendly.
To grow and care for ‘Soft Caress’ mahonia in the South, consider the following:
– Plant Attributes: ‘Soft Caress’ thrives in dry shade gardens and provides lush texture when mass-planted in woodland settings or used as an accent plant.
– Light: Prefers dappled sun but benefits from afternoon shade. Can tolerate full morning sun, but flowering may be reduced in full shade.
– Soil: Flourishes in moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter with an alkaline pH.
– Water: Drought tolerant once established but prefers consistent moisture. Deeply water plants during the first year and consider supplemental irrigation during hot, dry spells.
– Temperature and Humidity: Heat and humidity tolerant but thrives in shady conditions. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
– Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced fertilizer in early spring according to label instructions.
– Types: ‘Soft Caress’ Mahonia is a unique variety with soft, feathery foliage, discovered as a natural mutation in 2001.
– Planting: When planting ‘Soft Caress’, consider its compatibility with other shade-loving plants and its ability to complement bold foliage options like hostas and brunneras.
By following these care instructions, you can enjoy the beauty and resilience of ‘Soft Caress’ mahonia in your garden.
You can purchase ‘Soft Caress’ mahonia plants from garden centers and online retailers as potted plants that are easy to transplant to the garden. The best times to plant mahonia are early fall or early spring. For mass planting, space the plants three feet apart, and use a wider spacing for planting as an accent. ‘SoftCaress’ mahonia thrives in well-draining alkaline soil, so amend the soil with compost to improve drainage and adjust the pH as needed before planting. Make sure to water potted plants well before transplanting to prevent the roots from drying out during the process.
When planting, dig a hole that is 2-3 times wider than the root ball to allow for spreading of the root system. Remove the plant gently from its pot, loosen the roots, and plant it so that the root collar is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil. Fill the hole with the same soil you removed, pressing it down gently, then water the plant thoroughly and apply 1 to 2 inches of mulch, leaving a small ring around the stem free of mulch.
Pruning ‘Soft Caress’ mahonia is minimal; thin the plants every three or four years to encourage new growth, removing up to one-third of the stems in late winter after flowering. Remove any damaged or broken limbs whenever necessary.
To ensure ‘Soft Caress’ mahonia blooms properly, provide it with at least two to four hours of sun each day. Avoid pruning at the wrong time, as mahonias bloom on old wood. Prune after flowering in late winter to early spring to protect the next season’s flower buds.
When overwintering ‘Soft Caress’ mahonia in the ground, ensure the plants are well-watered in fall and winter, and mulch lightly to regulate soil temperatures and retain moisture. Potted plants are more vulnerable to cold temperatures, so bring them indoors during cold snaps below 25°F. In colder regions, potted mahonia can be overwintered indoors in a warm, well-lit location.
‘Soft Caress’ mahonia is patent-protected and cannot be propagated. Since it has a compact form and slow growth, it is well-suited for container gardening. Use frost-proof containers with drainage holes and a well-draining potting mix. Choose a container that is slightly larger than the root ball to give the plant room to grow.
“Soft Caress” mahonia, a delightful addition to any garden, requires periodic repotting to ensure healthy growth without becoming overcrowded. Every two to three years, transplant this elegant plant into a slightly larger container with fresh soil, selecting a pot that is one to two sizes bigger than its current home. Optimal conditions for container-grown mahonias include morning sun and afternoon shade or filtered light throughout the day. Remember that potted plants dry out faster than those in the ground, so be vigilant about watering deeply when the top two inches of soil feel dry to the touch. To keep your mahonia thriving, fertilize it with a water-soluble fertilizer following the instructions on the label from spring through mid-summer.
Pests and diseases are not a major concern for “Soft Caress” mahonia, as these plants are generally resistant to common issues. However, keep an eye out for leaf spots or rust, which can occasionally affect them. Watering at the base rather than from overhead can help prevent these foliar diseases. Should problems arise, promptly remove and dispose of any infected foliage. While fungicide treatment is rarely necessary, it can be used if issues persist.
In exposed locations, “Soft Caress” mahonia may be vulnerable to winter damage caused by dry winter winds. To protect your plant, position it where it is shielded from cold northerly gusts. Additionally, avoid overwatering or planting in poorly drained soil, as excessive moisture can lead to drooping or dropping leaves. Adjust your watering practices accordingly to maintain a healthy mahonia plant.
This unique perennial shrub brings a touch of rich color to your garden year-round, making it a valuable addition to any outdoor space. With proper care and attention to its needs, “Soft Caress” mahonia will reward you with its beauty and resilience.
