How to prune siberian dogwood

Late winter to early spring, before bud break. Cut one-third of the oldest stems to ground level each late winter for rolling renewal, or cut the whole plant to 15–20 cm (coppicing) every two to three years for maximum stem colour. Remove any plain green-reverted stems immediately to prevent them dominating.

Annually (rolling one-third) or every 2–3 years (full coppice). Siberian dogwood (Cornus alba 'Sibirica') is grown mainly for its vivid crimson winter stems. New growth has the most intense colour, so annual or biennial hard pruning in late winter is key. Cut the oldest stems — or the whole shrub — close to the ground to stimulate a flush of bright young shoots.

Cut one-third of the oldest stems to ground level each late winter for rolling renewal, or cut the whole plant to 15–20 cm (coppicing) every two to three years for maximum stem colour. Remove any plain green-reverted stems immediately to prevent them dominating.