Skimmia in October: monthly care

Skimmia japonica thrives in partial or full shade, making it an excellent choice for those awkward north-facing borders or beneath the canopy of larger trees. Avoid sunny, exposed positions, as strong sunlight can scorch the evergreen foliage and cause yellowing. The ideal soil is moisture-retentive, humus-rich, and crucially, acidic to neutral; skimmia will not tolerate alkaline or chalky conditions. If your soil is heavy clay, dig in plenty of well-rotted compost or ericaceous compost to improve drainage and lower pH. For peat-based soils, simply ensure good structure by incorporating organic matter. Plant container-grown skimmia in March, April, May, September, or October, when the soil is workable and temperatures are mild. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball but no deeper, so the top of the root ball sits level with the surrounding soil surface. Space plants about 96 cm apart to allow for their mature spread of up to 120 cm. If planting in groups, stagger them slightly for a more natural look and better air circulation. After planting, firm the soil gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets, then water thoroughly to settle the plant in. Apply a 5–7 cm layer of ericaceous mulch—such as composted bark or leaf mould—around the base, keeping it clear of the stem to prevent rot. This mulch conserves moisture, suppresses weeds, and gradually acidifies the soil as it breaks down. Water regularly during the first growing season to help the root system establish, especially during dry spells in spring and summer.