The Loropetalum shrubs have finally bloomed and are covered with hundreds of hot pink fringy flowers. I always look forward to seeing that big splash of color, but I was especially impatient this year. Even though the mass of color is beautiful, these shrubs are now too large. They need a good pruning because they’re crowding out other plants. Buds are formed in the summer so it’s best to prune right after flowering. Cutting them back in the fall or winter will affect next spring’s flowering.
Very soon, my Loropetalum shrub will get a drastic makeover. This evergreen plant is a vigorous grower and takes well to pruning. In fact, one landscaper said that it could be cut down to 18 inches high and still rebound. Loropetalum is a member of the witch hazel family. Hardy in zones 7-10, it should be planted in light or partial shade.
My Loropetalum shrubs are on a steep bank next to the driveway. The main branches are now too thick to use loppers—I'll have to use a pruning saw to tame them. That will be hard work. Note to self—prune a little each year—it’s a lot easier.
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