Caring for European Spindle

European spindle is a low-maintenance shrub once established, requiring little intervention through the year. Water newly planted specimens regularly during their first spring and summer, especially in dry spells, to help roots establish. After the first year, the plant is drought-tolerant and only needs watering during prolonged dry periods in summer. Mature shrubs growing in shade or heavy clay rarely need supplementary watering. Feed in March or April with a general-purpose granular fertiliser such as blood, fish and bone or Growmore, scattered around the base at roughly 70 g per square metre and lightly forked into the soil surface. Alternatively, top up the mulch layer each spring with well-rotted compost or manure, which feeds the soil as it breaks down. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds, which promote soft growth at the expense of flowers and fruit. Refresh the mulch layer annually in early spring to suppress weeds, conserve moisture and improve soil structure. Keep mulch a few centimetres clear of the stem to prevent rot. European spindle is fully hardy across temperate Europe and needs no winter protection. Pests are generally few. Aphids occasionally colonise young shoots in spring; a strong jet of water or an insecticidal soap usually resolves the problem. The shrub can host the black bean aphid, which overwinters on the stems, but this rarely causes lasting harm. Powdery mildew may appear on foliage in dry summers, particularly in sheltered spots with poor air circulation; improve spacing and avoid overhead watering. The plant is toxic if eaten, so site it carefully if young children use the garden.