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Hebes

LynfromSeaLynfromSea Posts: 133
in Problem solving
I have several beautiful Hebes in my garden that are outgrowing their space. Can I cut them back or do I take cuttings and replace them? I’d love some advice

Posts

  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    Hi @LynfromSea - cuttings are better, as they often don't recover from pruning back hard. Trimming back after flowering, and taking a little more is usually fine.
    It's a bit late to do them now, but you could give it a go, and keep them warm to encourage rooting. They'd need further protection until next year.  :)

    You can remove some branches completely, which will reduce the overall width, but it depends on the variety, and it could look odd if not done well. 
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • LynfromSeaLynfromSea Posts: 133
    Thank you so
    much for your good advice. I’ve taken some cuttings but I haven’t got a greenhouse so I’m using a heated propagator. Hopefully they will take 🤞
  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    I take them in early to mid summer, but there's no harm in having a go.
    If you succeed in getting them rooted, they're not going to suddenly be massive by spring anyway.
    Once they root [did you see I said once, not if ;) ] make sure to get rid of the covers and the heat though, and let them toughen up   :) 
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
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