Forsythia - Will I damage it if I cut back hard now?
DebbieMars
Posts: 12
in Plants
My Forsythia is leggy and only has leaves on the top and front. It also learns forward so not really a bush anymore. If I cut it down to the ground now will it survive the winter?
Thank you
0
Posts
It's hard to kill a well established forsythia but you won't get any flowers next year
In the sticks near Peterborough
It's about 6/7ft tall 5ft wide and really ugly, it's also full of Plenifora which I want to dig out. I don't mind if it doesn't flower next year I just want it to look healthy as digging it out completely will be a tough job.
I think I can guarantee its survival
Digging it out might be hard work but worth it if you don't like it.
There are a lot of plants called something plenflora, what are you digging out?
In the sticks near Peterborough
I've found that this rejuvenation technique works well with old forsythia bushes
http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/forsythia/forsythia-rejuvenation.htm
Thank you all x
One third of Forsythia branches should be removed each year after flowering. If you cut it to the ground now you will lose next year's flowers (shame) but you won't kill the shrub.
I always go by the best time to do something is when I have the energy or time regardless of season. Sometimes I win sometimes I lose but unless it is something really precious I just go for it. Always another planting opportunity if it fails!
I have to admit,I'm not a huge fan either, but mine gives privacy from the lane down to the farm so it can stay for that reason alone.
is the "pleniflora" Kerria?
Yes the Pleniflora is Kerria, it is driving me insane! It is sooooo hard to dig up but it's all around the shrub. I've cut the Forsythia back as far as I can. Once I've got rid of the Kerria I will be ale to cut it lower. There is no way I can remove as too big for me.