Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 4.7
Note that most new growth is coming from the younger wood. Remove the crusty old wood to make room
for new growth.
Completecanopyremoval/rejuvenation
Some shrubs can be cut back to stumps,
virtually decapitated, and bounce back
refreshed. This technique is an alternative to
replanting and, despite a short ugly period
following the severe pruning, it is very
effective in renewing the flowering wood of
the plant and reducing its overall size. If the
canopy is not removed and it is simply clipped
back, you will be creating a hedge out of what
was once a graceful informal shrub. As soon
as you feel inclined to bring out the hedging
shears, pause and consider whether this is
what you want your plant to become - a hedge
or topiary. If not, the removal of much of the
canopy is the answer. In Figure 4.7, for
example, the buddleja has been cut back to
stumps. It is reshooting vigorously. Pinch out
the tips of these shoots to promote bushiness
and the natural relaxed shape of the plant
will return.
This procedure need only be attempted every
five to seven years depending on the vigor of
the species. Some plants respond by
producing new suckering growth, others by
resprouting from the remaining wood. See
Table 4.1 for species that tolerate this
treatment. See also 'Coppicing', page 84.
