How to prune blue potato bush

Early spring before new growth begins; if grown in pots for overwintering, an autumn cut to fit winter quarters is acceptable. Shorten all main shoots by up to one-third, cutting to a healthy outward-facing bud or node. During the flowering season, trim excessively long shoots that distort the crown to keep the shape tidy. Avoid heavy cuts in autumn in frost-prone climates.

Annually in early spring; light shaping during flowering season as needed. Blue Potato Bush (Lycianthes rantonnetii) is a vigorous, arching shrub or climber that requires annual pruning to maintain shape and encourage the prolific violet-blue flowers it produces on new growth. Without pruning it becomes open and woody at the base. Prune in early spring, shortening shoots by up to one-third.

Shorten all main shoots by up to one-third, cutting to a healthy outward-facing bud or node. During the flowering season, trim excessively long shoots that distort the crown to keep the shape tidy. Avoid heavy cuts in autumn in frost-prone climates.