When we were at Exeter we had some very old hydrangeas growing on the eastern side of the house. They were six feet high and thick with old wood. It took me a number of years to thin them out so they continued to flower but were renewed with fresh growth. I used to cut them back in August but by then they had leaves.
Since then I've had a rethink on the timing and have come to the conclusion that mid June is the time to prune in the Highlands, when the stems have buds but no leaves as yet. But, it may vary depending on where you are. Parts of the Highlands are colder than others and your plants' situation may affect the formation of the new shoots but June is probably the earliest time to prune.
What you're looking for are pairs of new shoots, pairs opposite each other on the stem. Take the cutting back to a the plumpest pair. When summer comes your plants should look like those in the picture. Fresh, prolific flower buds that will give pleasure right through the summer.
Having not long become a resident of Bowral, I am wondering when roses should be pruned.
ReplyDeleteThank you.
August is when I prune mine, all the best.
Delete