Black Knight Butterfly Bush (Tree Form)

1. Planting: Plant your butterfly bush in a location that receives at least six hours of bright sunlight and has well-draining soil. Before planting, mix compost into the soil to help improve drainage and quality. While planting, make sure to hold the plant straight as you fill in with soil.

To protect the plant's roots, top off with a layer of mulch, especially if you live in a colder climate.

2. Watering:  Butterfly bush roots can be susceptible to rotting, so avoid overwatering. Water the shrub deeply during long, dry spells.

3. Fertilizing:  If planted in good quality soil, butterfly bushes rarely need fertilizer. For poorer soil, apply a slow-release fertilizer annually in spring.

4. Pruning:  The butterfly bush benefits from frequent deadheading. Remove flowers that have finished blooming to encourage the plant to produce more flowers.

Prune the shrub annually in early spring when the first buds emerge to help maintain shape.