Pruning Technique for Red Twig Dogwood to Promote New Growth
Red twig dogwood shrubs, renowned for their vibrant red stems, can benefit from a process called rejuvenation pruning. This method is particularly useful for neglected and overgrown shrubs.
Rejuvenation pruning is a three-pronged approach that can be employed for these shrubs. The first method is a more conservative approach, maintaining the height and some blooms. In this method, one-third of the old, woody branches should be cut back each year, over a three-year period.
For an extensive rejuvenation pruning job, a more drastic approach is required. This involves cutting branches as close to the ground as possible. This extreme method is suitable for shrubs that are totally out of control. However, it's important to note that new growth will appear during the growing season after extreme pruning. By next winter, the red twig dogwood will have bright red stems.
Proper pruning of red twig dogwood shrubs should be done in late winter or early spring, before buds open. This is a crucial step to ensure the health and vitality of the shrub.
When pruning, it's essential to use clean, sharp tools to prevent the spread of disease and to make pruning easier. Branches that are growing down, towards the center, or crossing other limbs should be trimmed.
A simple way to remember the pruning time for red twig dogwood bushes is to do it sometime after the Super Bowl but before St. Patrick's Day.
Other shrubs that respond well to rejuvenation pruning include spirea, lilac, privet, viburnum, weigela, and forsythia. Spring flowering shrubs like weigela and forsythia, however, bloom on old wood, so cuts on these should be made after the flowers have faded.
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In conclusion, rejuvenation pruning is a valuable tool for revitalising neglected red twig dogwood shrubs. Whether you opt for the conservative three-year approach or the more drastic extreme pruning, the result will be a vibrant, healthy shrub ready to thrive in your garden.
