Gardeners often notice that honeysuckle, despite being one of the toughest berry crops, doesn’t always shoot up in its early years.
It’s not unusual for young bushes to look like they’re stuck in place for three to five seasons.
But here’s the catch—it’s rarely the seedlings that are at fault. More often than not, the issue is simply a lack of nutrients.
And September is the ideal time to step in, because right now the plant is busy setting buds for next year’s growth.
Strengthening Honeysuckle Before Winter
As autumn rolls in, honeysuckle needs a helping hand to prepare for the cold months ahead.
Giving it the right food now ensures stronger roots and a much more generous harvest in the summer.
The easiest and most effective solution? Organic matter.
Well-rotted horse manure is a classic choice.
Spread it around the trunk circle, gently work it into the soil, and let nature take care of the rest.
This slow-release feeding does its magic over the winter, and by spring the shrub will have everything it needs for vigorous new growth and the formation of flower buds.
⚠️ One word of caution: skip fresh manure. It can burn delicate roots and even invite fungal diseases.
Why Autumn Feeding Matters More Than You Think
It’s a common misconception that fertilizing should only happen in spring.
For honeysuckle, early autumn is actually a turning point.
By now, the shoots have stopped growing, and the plant shifts focus to hardening its wood and storing up energy for winter.
That’s where potassium and phosphorus step in—they strengthen the bush against frost and help it bounce back quickly when spring arrives.
Don’t Forget the Pruning
Nutrition is only half the job. Come spring, honeysuckle tends to get a bit crowded.
That’s why, after the first winter of fruiting, it’s important to prune. Remove weak or unnecessary shoots and keep only the strongest branches.
This gives the bush better airflow and light, which in turn encourages more flower buds to form.
The payoff? A rich, abundant harvest in the summer.