Pruning St. John’s Wort for Abundant Blooms and a Healthy Shrub
St. John’s wort is a beautiful and easy-to-grow shrub that produces a profusion of bright yellow flowers from summer through fall. With a little annual pruning, you can keep your St. John’s wort looking its best and blooming its heart out.
When to Prune St. John’s Wort
The best time to prune St. John’s wort is in early spring, just before new growth begins. This timing is important because St. John’s wort flowers on new growth. If you prune too late, you’ll reduce the number of flowers your shrub produces.
How to Prune St. John’s Wort
Pruning St. John’s wort is a simple process. Here are the steps to follow:
- Plan on pruning off about one-third of the total height of the shrub in mid or late March. This will help to keep your shrub a manageable size and encourage new growth.
- Prune all branch tips and selectively remove some branches to thin the plant. This will help to improve air circulation and prevent disease.
- Remove any branches that are dead, damaged, or crossing. These branches are no longer contributing to the health of the shrub and can be removed.
Tips for Pruning St. John’s Wort
- Use sharp, clean shears to make clean cuts.
- Sterilize your shears before pruning to prevent the spread of disease.
- If your shrub hasn’t flowered in a long time or appears beyond repair, don’t give up. You can prune St. John’s wort very severely – almost all the way to the ground – to rejuvenate it.
Benefits of Pruning St. John’s Wort
Pruning St. John’s wort offers a number of benefits, including:
- Increased flowering
- Improved shape and size
- Reduced risk of disease
- Rejuvenation of old or neglected shrubs
Conclusion
Pruning St. John’s wort is a simple and effective way to keep your shrub looking its best and blooming its heart out. By following the tips in this article, you can ensure that your St. John’s wort is a beautiful and healthy addition to your garden for years to come.
