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Cistus rock rose pruning.

GraysGrays Posts: 172
in Plants
Hi all,
could anyone give me some advice regarding this large overgrown Cistus.
As you can see from the photo, I have cut back an overgrown Hebe, but behind it is the Cistus which ideally wants cutting right back too.
I believe you should only cut a small amount off a Cistus? If I cut it right back now, are the chances that it will die?
Should I take a chance, and of the worst happens, replace it with something else next spring?
Thanks in advance.

Posts

  • GraysGrays Posts: 172
    Really struggle with photos, apologies 

  • ObelixxObelixx Posts: 30,090
    I have bought a couple of these to plant in a new border and looked up their care on the RHS site.  You need to be careful pruning a mature cistus.  Have a read of this:
    https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/cistus/growing-guide

    Vendée - 20kms from Atlantic coast.
    "The price good men (and women) pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men (and women)."
    Plato
  • GraysGrays Posts: 172
    Thanks for the reply,
    Sadly after reading that it looks like I may have to replace it, as a good prune back (and it needs it as shown in the photo) could be the end of it.
    I can’t have it looking like it currently does, as it is taking over the patio.
    Probably cut it back, hope there’s a slim chance of it recovering, if not replace next year.
    Thanks again.
  • ObelixxObelixx Posts: 30,090
    Try taking cuttings and then digging it out and planting something more suitable.
    Vendée - 20kms from Atlantic coast.
    "The price good men (and women) pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men (and women)."
    Plato
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