Step by step

1 ASSESS your shrub first, so you can identify any dead, damaged or diseased stems that need to be removed first. If their thickness is less than 1cm, use secateurs, but for anything larger use loppers.

2 OPEN up the centre of the plant, removing congested or inwardfacing stems. This will keep air flowing through the plant, which reduces airborne disease and allows you to see any pests more easily.

3 REMOVE any crossing stems. These tend to rub against each other, creating wounds that can be an entry point for disease. Long-handled loppers are handy for reaching into tight spaces.

4 FINISH by cutting off any smaller dead twigs and removing any remaining faded flowerheads to tidy up the plant. Deadheading prevents the shrub wasting energy on producing seeds.