Water

Newly Planted Shrub (First Season): Keep the root ball consistently moist but never soggy. Water 2 to 3 times a week during its first spring and summer. Give it roughly 1 to 2 gallons of water each time, pouring it slowly right at the base of the plant. Established Shrub (Second Season+): Once its root system stretches deep into the ground, its drought tolerance kicks in. Drop back to watering deeply once a week, increasing to twice a week only during intense summer heatwaves or prolonged dry spells. Always water early in the morning. This gives the plant a chance to hydrate before the midday sun hits, and ensures any water that accidentally gets on the leaves evaporates quickly. Wet leaves sitting overnight are an open invitation for fungal leaf spot diseases.

Fertilizer

Apply fertilizer once a year in early spring right as the first new green buds begin to peek out on the stems. Stop all fertilizing by late July so the plant can safely transition into winter. Use a slow-release granular shrub and tree fertilizer or a standard 10-10-10 garden mix.

Pruning

Because it blooms on new wood, you can prune it heavily without worrying about cutting off future flowers. Prune once a year in late winter or early spring (typically late February through April, depending on your region). You want to do this while the plant is still dormant.