To rejuvenate a little devil Ninebark, you can follow a few simple steps to ensure its health and promote better form. Rejuvenation pruning is typically done when the shrub has become overgrown, has an unattractive shape, or has suffered from winter dieback. Here’s a detailed guide on how to rejuvenate your little devil Ninebark:
1. Assess the shrub’s condition: Before starting any pruning, take a close look at the Ninebark to determine its overall health and identify any problem areas. Look for winter dieback, broken branches, or any signs of disease or pest infestation. This assessment will help you plan your pruning strategy.
2. Wait until spring: The best time to prune a little devil Ninebark is in the spring when the plant is just starting to come out of dormancy. By waiting until this time, you can better assess any winter damage and ensure that the shrub has a chance to recover from pruning before the growing season.
3. Remove winter dieback and broken branches: Using sharp and clean pruning shears or loppers, carefully trim off any dead or damaged branches. Cut back to healthy wood, making clean cuts just above a bud or branch junction. This will help prevent any potential disease or pest issues from spreading.
4. Shape the shrub: If your little devil Ninebark has an unattractive shape or has become overgrown, you can selectively prune to improve its form. Start by removing any crossing or rubbing branches that may hinder the shrub’s growth. Then, step back and assess the overall shape of the shrub. Make cuts above outward-facing buds or branches to encourage outward growth and maintain an open and airy shape.
5. Rejuvenation pruning: If your little devil Ninebark is severely overgrown or has lost its shape, you can opt for more drastic rejuvenation pruning. This involves cutting the entire shrub back close to the ground, leaving only a few inches of stem. While this may seem extreme, the Ninebark is a resilient plant and will quickly regrow from the base. This rejuvenation pruning should only be done every few years to maintain the health and vigor of the shrub.
6. Post-pruning care: After pruning, it’s important to provide proper care to help the little devil Ninebark recover and thrive. Water the shrub deeply to ensure it receives adequate moisture, especially during hot and dry periods. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the shrub to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots.
7. Regular maintenance: Once you have rejuvenated your little devil Ninebark, it should not require pruning for several years. However, it’s important to regularly monitor the shrub’s growth and remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches as needed. This will help maintain its health and appearance over time.
Remember, every plant is unique, and the specific pruning requirements may vary based on its individual growth habits and condition. It’s always a good idea to consult local gardening resources or seek advice from a professional if you have any doubts or concerns about pruning your little devil Ninebark.
