Pruning gently

Can I get more consistent flowering on kolkwitzias?

AThese shrubs need careful pruning. If you cut all the stems back after flowering the plant sends up lots of strong shoots that won’t flower much the following year. The best approach is to cut to the base just the oldest, twiggiest stems after flowering, then lightly ‘tidy up’ the plant, reducing a few long stems. This will promote flowers next year and keep the shrub a good shape. Note that pink flowers can fade to white prematurely in hot, dry spells.