Growli

Pruning guide

How to prune weeping forsythia

Best time
Immediately after flowering (March–April in most temperate climates)
How often
Annually after flowering
Technique
Cut out up to one-quarter of the oldest, darkest stems at ground level with loppers. Shorten the remaining flowered shoots back to strong young sideshoots lower on the stem. Avoid cutting long arching branches short — let them sweep naturally.

More weeping forsythia care

Pruning weeping forsythia — FAQ

When should I prune weeping forsythia?

Immediately after flowering (March–April in most temperate climates). Cut out up to one-quarter of the oldest, darkest stems at ground level with loppers. Shorten the remaining flowered shoots back to strong young sideshoots lower on the stem. Avoid cutting long arching branches short — let them sweep naturally.

How often does weeping forsythia need pruning?

Annually after flowering. Weeping forsythia blooms on the previous year's wood, so prune immediately after flowering — never in autumn or winter. Each year, remove one-quarter of the oldest stems at the base to keep growth vigorous. The naturally arching, cascading habit should be preserved; avoid shearing which destroys its character.

How do you prune weeping forsythia?

Cut out up to one-quarter of the oldest, darkest stems at ground level with loppers. Shorten the remaining flowered shoots back to strong young sideshoots lower on the stem. Avoid cutting long arching branches short — let them sweep naturally.