Kerria japonica 'Golden Guinea' is a graceful, deciduous shrub beloved for its brilliant display of large, single golden-yellow flowers that smother the arching green stems in spring. Unlike the more commonly seen double form, 'Golden Guinea' bears open, buttercup-like blooms with a simple, natural charm that lights up the garden from early to late spring. The bright green, elegantly arching canes remain ornamental throughout summer and take on attractive yellow tints in autumn, offering multi-season interest. A reliable and easy-going shrub, it is an excellent choice for borders, woodland edges, or any spot in need of a cheerful splash of colour.

Growing conditions

Aspect and position: Kerria japonica 'Golden Guinea' is wonderfully versatile and will thrive in a wide range of aspects, including partial shade and even full shade, making it particularly valuable for those tricky, darker corners of the garden. It also performs well in full sun, though some shelter from the harshest afternoon sun helps preserve the flower colour for longer.

Soil: This shrub is unfussy about soil type and will grow well in most moderately fertile, well-drained to moisture-retentive soils. It tolerates clay, loam, and sandy soils alike. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as prolonged wet soil around the roots can cause problems. Enriching the planting area with well-rotted organic matter will help the plant establish quickly and promote vigorous growth.

Hardiness: Kerria japonica 'Golden Guinea' is fully hardy throughout the British Isles and most of temperate Europe, tolerating cold winters without difficulty. The stems are tough and resilient, and even if top growth is damaged by a late frost, the plant will regenerate readily from the base.

Care

Watering: Once established, Kerria japonica 'Golden Guinea' is quite drought tolerant and requires little supplementary watering. During the first growing season, water regularly to help the root system develop. In prolonged dry spells, a deep watering at the base of the plant will keep it looking its best.

Feeding: This shrub requires very little feeding. An annual mulch of well-rotted compost or garden manure applied around the base in spring will provide sufficient nutrients and help retain soil moisture. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds, which encourage leafy growth at the expense of flowers.

Pruning: Pruning is straightforward and best carried out immediately after flowering in late spring or early summer. Cut back the flowered stems by around one third to a pair of strong buds or a healthy sideshoot, encouraging vigorous new growth that will carry the following season's blooms. Older, congested or dead stems can be cut right back to the base to rejuvenate the plant and keep the clump tidy. Kerria spreads gently by suckering, so remove any unwanted suckers at ground level to keep the plant within its allotted space.

Garden use

Planting suggestions: The arching habit and radiant spring flowers of Kerria japonica 'Golden Guinea' make it a superb choice for mixed and shrub borders, where it combines beautifully with spring-flowering bulbs such as narcissi and bluebells. It is equally well suited to woodland garden settings or planted against a shaded wall or fence, where few other flowering shrubs would perform as reliably. Its suckering nature makes it useful for stabilising banks or filling awkward gaps. For a striking colour contrast, pair it with purple-leaved shrubs such as Weigela 'Wine and Roses' or the dark foliage of Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo'.

Guide to Planting Field-Grown Root Balled Plants

Pros:

1. Established Roots: Typically stronger, established roots ensure better initial growth.
2. Immediate Impact: Larger plants provide instant structure and aesthetics.

Cons:

1. Heavy and Bulky: Can be difficult to transport and plant due to size and weight.
2. Seasonal Availability: Generally available only in the dormant season (autumn to early spring).

Preparation for Planting:

1. Unwrap Carefully: Remove any packaging material, but leave the burlap or wire basket on.
2. Keep plants moist: Plants should be kept moist until the time of planting.

Planting Process:

1. Dig a Hole: Make a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth.
2. Position Plant: Place the root ball in the hole, ensuring the top is level with the ground surface.
3. Do Not Remove Root Sack: Leave the burlap or wire basket around the root ball. It is bio degradable and will rot away naturally.
4. Backfill: Fill the hole with soil, firming gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
5. Water: Water deeply after planting to settle the soil and avoid wilting.

Possibility of Losses:

• Initial Shock: Some plants may suffer transplant shock, leading to potential losses.
• Mitigation: Proper care and consistent watering during the establishment phase can minimise this risk.

Main Causes of Failure:

1. Improper Planting Depth: Planting too deep or too shallow can stress the roots.
2. Poor Soil Conditions: Compacted or poorly drained soil can hinder root growth.
3. Insufficient Watering: Both under-watering and over-watering can lead to plant stress and failure. Strong wind can dry leafy pants.
4. Pest and Disease: Lack of protection and monitoring can result in damage from pests and diseases.

Tips for Success:

1. Stake Larger Plants: Support with stakes to prevent wind damage.
2. Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
3. Regular Monitoring: Check for signs of stress, pests, and disease, and address them promptly.

By following these guidelines and providing consistent aftercare, you can successfully plant and establish field-grown root balled plants in your garden.

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Does the height include the pot?

No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description

How long does delivery take?

Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.

Where will you leave my plants?

We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.