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Cistus bush ripped out by winds - can I / should I save it?

Pink678Pink678 Posts: 498
in Problem solving
My cistus bush got ripped out at the base by the recent strong winds.
One single piece was torn out at ground level, but that one piece made up around 80% of the bush.
I took some photos to illustrate - the middle photo shows the bare more orangey wood in the middle where it ripped out.
I had rejuvenated the bush previously (it had overgrown) by cutting old stems at the base which you can see in the photo.
The last photo is of the piece that was ripped out.
I do like this bush as it has a lovely scent from the wood and I like the white flowers, but I'm wondering what is the best thing to do now.
Should I just remove the whole thing, and maybe buy a new one, or is there a way to make the bush grow back?
Thank you very much.

Posts

  • punkdocpunkdoc Posts: 15,039
    I think I would cut my losses and start again.
    How can you lie there and think of England
    When you don't even know who's in the team

    S.Yorkshire/Derbyshire border
  • Pink678Pink678 Posts: 498
    Thank you punkdoc I think I will get rid of it and start afresh.
  • Joyce GoldenlilyJoyce Goldenlily Posts: 2,933
    I would shorten the cut branches back to the main stem area and buy a replacement to plant nearby. Cistus are fairly short lived plants and yours looks quite elderly so may be near the end of its natural life from the state of the trunk. That way you can enjoy your old friend for a year or two but have a new one growing by it. 
  • Pink678Pink678 Posts: 498
    Thank you Joyce Goldenlily, I didn't realise they are short lived. Yes, I think it is rather elderly! That's a really good idea to maintain what's left of this one, tidied up, while growing a new one. I
  • nutcutletnutcutlet Posts: 27,445
    I agree with @punkdoc



    In the sticks near Peterborough
  • Pink678Pink678 Posts: 498
    Thanks nutcutlet it's really helpful to get everyone's input. It makes the decision much easier for me.
  • ViewAheadViewAhead Posts: 866
    I think the bit left will survive as it is, but it will always grow lopsidedly as the cut back bits don't look like they will send out any shoots.  So, I'm with the consensus that replacing it with a healthy new youngster would be best. 🙂  
  • Pink678Pink678 Posts: 498
    Thank you all, I have removed it now, it was for the best. I'm thinking about getting a new one.
  • ViewAheadViewAhead Posts: 866
    The beauty of gardening - every setback is an opportunity! 😁
  • Pink678Pink678 Posts: 498
    :D So true it's a good excuse to buy something nice!
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