How to prune pereskia aculeata

Late winter to early spring before new growth, or after fruiting. Use sharp, sterilised secateurs to cut stems back to outward-facing buds or side branches. Wear thick gloves — spines are sharp. Long climbing stems can be shortened by half; older woody growth can be cut to a framework. Dispose of prunings carefully.

Annually, with light tidying through the growing season. Barbados gooseberry (Pereskia aculeata) is a vigorous thorny climber that benefits from regular pruning to keep it in bounds. Prune after fruiting or in late winter to remove excess growth, shape the plant, and encourage productive branching. Without regular cutting it becomes unruly; trim freely as this species tolerates hard pruning.

Use sharp, sterilised secateurs to cut stems back to outward-facing buds or side branches. Wear thick gloves — spines are sharp. Long climbing stems can be shortened by half; older woody growth can be cut to a framework. Dispose of prunings carefully.