Three years ago when the landscaper put in two of these plants, he said to cut them back in a couple of years. So, how does one do this? They've gotten twice as tall as when first planted and their trunks, once as slender as a finger, are now as thick as a wrist. I just can't see where one starts lopping off. Can anyone advise?
Pruning Blue Mist Spirea
I usually wait until they start their spring growth, then cut them back to where the new growth is real strong. This is usually about 1/2 to 2/3 of the plant. It keeps them all nice and bushy. I've had my oldest ones for about 8 years now and they are pretty big, but not unmanageable, and they really bloom every year. I also cut off any branches that are irritating to me (growing in the way of other plants or are otherwise inconvenient) and those that are dead or broken.
I imagine there is a more official/scientific/horticultural answer, but this has worked for me. Good luck! I love my blue mists. They really hang in there all fall, take hardly any care and they even look good in flower arrangements. Good luck w/ yours!
mudpiegirl, Thank you so much for your reply! I can prune with confidence now.
Well, thanks! Have fun!