How far can you prune Hebes?
With shorter and more compact varieties only prune to maintain a good shape. Removing the top 5cm / 2ins is about right. With taller varieties prune back the top 20cm / 8in or so. Pruning a few stems back further (but always leaving two buds) will open up the centre of the plant and encourage new, colourful growth.
Can I cut back an overgrown Hebe?
Prune hebes as soon as the flowers have faded. Using secateurs, remove the dead flower heads and cut the foliage back by up to a third. If your plant has become ‘leggy’ and tired, you can often rejuvenate it by cutting it back hard. This is best done in spring, when it has more time to recover before winter.
Can you cut a Hebe right back?
Most Hebes need little or no pruning. However the larger-leaved types are prone to damaged stems, and these can be safely cut back at any time during the growing season. Dead-heading of old flowers on Hebe plants is well worth the effort. They should not be pruned in late Autumn – nor winter months.
How do you prune Hebe Sutherlandii?
Pruning Advice Hebe Sutherlandii should be pruned in the growing season – or right at the end of the Winter dormancy period. They should not be pruned in late Autumn – nor Winter months.
How do you prune a Hebe Bush?
Immediately after they have finished flowering simply cut out the dead flowers. After a harsh winter some stems may have been burnt by frost. Inspect your hebes at the end of March and prune away any damaged stems, cutting back to a live bud.
How do I reduce the size of a Hebe?
Pruning hebes Cut back back dead flowers and up to a third of foliage in late summer, after flowering, to encourage strong new growth and a good bushy shape. Annual pruning will extend the life of your hebe, too. Hard pruning (pictured) can rejuvenate an old hebe plant and give it an extra lease of life.
Does Hebe make a good hedge?
Hebes are great for informal hedging and garden borders. Their evergreen foliage makes them good ground cover and the pretty flowers that attract bees and butterflies make them suitable for wildlife gardens.
When should plants be pruned?
Pruning to remove damaged, dead or diseased parts can be done at any time of the year. Most trees and shrubs, especially those that flower on current season’s new growth should be pruned in late winter or early spring before the onset of new growth.