DON'T BE SHOCKED, IT WILL LOOK BETTER THIS SUMMER
For several years now, we have adopted rejuvenation pruning of many shrubs during the winter. Many shrubs used in landscaping naturally grow larger than the area in which they are planted. When not pruned to the appropriate height, these shrubs can get out of hand and become too large over time. To correct this, we recommend rejuvenation pruning to bring them back into size.
Sometimes this can be achieved by thinning pruning, but other times the shrubs need to be cut down to the ground and allowed to regrow at a shorter, more natural height. The issue is that when we make the cutback, it may look like we have killed the plants, but they almost always grow back and look much better by the end of the season.
This practice is becoming an increasingly important part of our maintenance program as landscapes age. Please be open to this approach, as it is the best long-term practice to improve the appearance of your property when we make this recommendation.
BEFORE REJUVENATION
- Overgrown and misshapen
- Taking up too much space
- Often blocking windows or walkways
- Woody with less healthy foliage
- Poor flowering performance
AFTER REJUVENATION
- Appropriate size for the space
- Fresh, vigorous new growth
- Better overall plant health
- Improved flowering
- Extended plant lifespan
What to Expect After Rejuvenation Pruning
After rejuvenation pruning, your shrubs will initially appear drastically reduced or even seemingly gone. This is normal! Here's what happens next:
- Spring: New growth will begin to emerge from the base or remaining stems
- Early Summer: Plants will have noticeable leafy growth
- Late Summer/Fall: Many shrubs will have filled in significantly
- Following Year: Complete recovery with a much improved form