Lawn Guardian

Spirea Care Guide

Spiraea japonica

shrubZones 4–8deer resistant

Compact, carefree shrub with flat clusters of pink flowers in summer and colorful fall foliage. One of the easiest flowering shrubs to grow.

At a glance

Season-by-season care

Spring

Prune for shape Early spring before growth

Summer-blooming spireas bloom on new wood. Cut back by 1/2 in early spring to promote dense growth and more flowers.

Summer

Deadhead for rebloom After first bloom fades

Shear off spent flower clusters to encourage a second flush of bloom.

Fall

Enjoy fall color Fall

Many spireas develop orange-red fall foliage. Leave plant unpruned through winter for interest.

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Related plants

Sources: Purdue University Turfgrass Science: Use Growing Degree Days to Better Time Your Applications · University of Missouri Extension: Cool-Season Grasses: Lawn Maintenance Calendar · University of Minnesota Extension: Pre-emergent Herbicides for Crabgrass Control in Lawns