People think pruning Wisteria is complicated, it isnt, you just need a bit of confidence and a decent pair of secateurs... and probably a ladder!
Pruning is done twice a year, once in the summer and again in the winter.
In the summer, cut back the long whippy current growth to 5 or 6 leaves in July/August. This will help to encourage flower buds to form, and also keeps this vigorous plant in check. Take this opportunity to remove growth from gutters, downpipes, etc.
During the dormant season, January/February time, cut back the same growths to 2 to 3 buds. Clear out ant dead /damaged stems at the same time. This gives you chance to see the framework of the plant and you can remove thicker stems if required.
If you have a neglected Wisteria, they do tolerate drastic pruning. I have done this myself for a few clients and its amazing how quickly they respond. You can prune down to 30cm if it is really tangled up, or be slightly less drastic if you have a good framework of stems to start with. Give the renovated plant a boost with some slow release fertiliser and mulch the base with some organic matter to retain moisture. You can now train the wisteria to suit the space.
Where can I get wisteria from , not seen any in garden centres .
ReplyDeleteI dont think you have looked hard enough Mrs Black!
ReplyDeleteFinally got one , yay !
ReplyDeletejolly good, will have to come and inspect your pruning!
ReplyDelete