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annella

By Annella

Northamptonshire, United Kingdom Gb

I have a very mishapen and quite woody Brachyglottis 'Sunshine' in my front garden, is hard pruning now (aged about 8 years) likely to rejuvenate or kill it?




Answers

 

As I understand it this shrub is in pruning group 8 which means you prune immediately after flowering. When does it normally bloom for you?

20 Feb, 2013

 

If you're growing it for its flowers, what MG says above is correct. However, this shrub is often used for the colour of its leaves rather than its flowers, and as a filler or low hedging, and as such, you can cut it any time you like - but the best thing with an aged one is to cut it back as hard as you like (even down to 6 inches) in April. It will grow anew without any trouble, and may even still produce one or two flowers later on. It's a little early to be that drastic with it at the moment though, so wait till April.

20 Feb, 2013

 

Thanks ladies. It usually starts to flower early July here but I have to admit to really not liking the yellow flowers so I will hard prune in April as Bamboo suggests.

21 Feb, 2013

 

You and me both then - I loathe the flowers myself...

21 Feb, 2013

 

same here.............

21 Feb, 2013

 

Someone needs to breed one with pink or white flowers, would be very attractive then.

22 Feb, 2013

 

White would be good, but the foliage is the thing.

22 Feb, 2013

 

I agree Gattina, it's the only reason I grow them.

22 Feb, 2013

How do I say thanks?

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