General Chat

I have a Peiris (sp) that is over 15 years old and its become very spindly and a bit woody..... can I prune it back harshly and will it survive? Its a valuable plant to me (Daddy looked after it when I couldn't) and I don't want to lose it! xx

How about trying to prune it in stages? Cut some of the longest straggliest branches back then give it a year or so before doing the rest. That way you don't risk losing the plant. I'd make some cuttings of the bits while I was at it. Good luck Sue

Excellent idea Sue! I could start at the back of the plant and then it won't look so bad if it doesn't react! Thanks xx

I would ring your garden centre - have just looked up my gardeners encyclopedia and it is as clear as mud! Roots well from cuttings.

Pink Why don't you send TJ a pm as she is a gardener(proffesional). Suexxxxxxxx

HI Pink, I hope this helps. Pieris does tend to send up shoots when cut severely. To minimize this, you can do it in steps over a couple years. Leave some of the taller branches, and thin the rest down to the height you want. Next year, take out the taller branches you left. Even if you can't wait, the shoots are worst the first spring after the hard pruning, and slow down after that. Also, doing your hardest pruning at the end of summer rather than in the winter can cut down somewhat on the extra shoots. Tina x

PIERIS species/ ANDROMEDA Pieris is a genus of seven species of evergreen shrubs occurring in forest and on hillsides in the Himalayas, E. Asia, North America and the West Indies. Pieris japonica and Pieris 'Forest Flame' are both common garden species that are also suitable for use as bonsai. BONSAI CULTIVATION NOTES POSITION Partial shade, reliably hardy to -5°C. During colder periods or late Spring frosts, frost protection should be afforded. FEEDING Pieris are lime-hating and require feeding with an ericaceous fertiliser. REPOTTING Every three or four years in early Spring using a lime-free soil mix. PRUNING Trim back new shoots throughout the growing season. Hard or formative pruning can be carried out after flowering. Deadhead after flowering. PROPAGATION Take greenwood cuttings in early Summer or semi-ripe cuttings in mid- to late Summer. PESTS AND DISEASES Leaf spot, Chlorosis and Phytophthora root rot can be a problem. STYLING Informal upright forms and cascades in small to large sizes

You don't want advice from me darling.... I managed to kill off my mothers beautiful house plants in less than a year!! I'm useless. but I have other talents. Deanna X