How to Prune Weigela Shrubs: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Weigelas are beautiful spring-blooming shrubs that add color and flair to any garden. To keep them looking their best, regular pruning is essential. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about pruning weigelas, including when to prune, how to prune for different purposes, and how to rejuvenate old shrubs.
When to Prune Weigelas
The best time to prune weigelas is in the late spring, after they have finished blooming. Pruning at this time will prevent you from accidentally removing next year’s flowers, as weigelas bloom on wood that is a year old. Pruning after blooming also gives the new growth a chance to develop before winter.
Pruning Weigelas to Control Size
If you want to keep your weigela shrubs a certain size, you can prune them to control their growth. To do this, visualize the shape you want the shrub to be. Then, trim off branches as needed to create that shape. You can cut back any one branch by one-third each season to control size. Be sure to cut branches back to a point where two branches meet.
Rejuvenation Pruning for Weigelas
Weigelas look best when they are mostly made up of young wood. To encourage new growth and rejuvenation, it is a good idea to remove old wood every few years. To do this, identify the branches that are old and woody, typically those that are 1 1/2 inches (4 cm) thick or larger. Trim these branches out from their base on the plant. Do not remove more than one-third of the branches in one year. If the shrub is more than one-third old wood, repeat the process the following year.
Trimming Weigelas Back to the Ground
In some cases, you may encounter a weigela shrub that has not been properly cared for and is in poor shape. These shrubs may have very little blooms and be made up almost entirely of thick branches. In these cases, you may need to take drastic measures to rejuvenate the plant. You can try trimming the weigela back to the ground, removing all branches to about 4 inches (10 cm) above the soil line. It may take the weigela a year to start blooming again after this type of pruning.
Tips for Pruning Weigelas
- Use sharp pruning shears or hedge clippers.
- Make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle.
- Avoid pruning in the fall or winter, as this can make the plant more susceptible to disease.
- Fertilize your weigelas regularly to encourage healthy growth.
- Water your weigelas deeply and regularly, especially during hot weather.
Conclusion
Pruning weigelas is an important part of keeping them healthy and looking their best. By following the tips in this guide, you can ensure that your weigelas will thrive for years to come.
