Recovery of a savaged pieris?
Sarah248
Posts: 44
i have (had ????) a six foot high Flaming Silver Pieris in a pot. The top growth was beautiful and lush on top of very leggy and woody stems. The trouble was, whenever it rained, the pieris would sag to such an extent that it was in danger of splitting. In a fit of exuberance, I lopped it back to around a foot high and although, two months later, there is a little sprout here and there in the old wood, I'm wondering if I've done it some serious harm? The woody stems are still green if I scratch at the bark and looking closely, there appear to be these red spots which I'm guessing are new buds forming? I've religiously fed it and ensured it doesn't dry out.
Has anyone else committed a crime like this and had a full recovery or do I just admit defeat after this time and buy a replacement?
many thanks.
Posts
If it's still green and showing signs of growth, it should be fine Sarah. In fact, you've probably done it a favour. Keep it out of too much sun and keep it well watered over the rest of the summer. It would be worth repotting and giving it some fresh compost too.
I hacked back a purple Berberis and a Buddleia last year - both fine. They're all good, tough shrubs.
I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
I cut back an uncared for Pieris last year when I moved house . It was terribly distorted and quite old, garden positioned in full sun, rain, wind. It is fine, but still needs more pruning and shaping. Good luck.
Thanks very much for your replies Fairygirl and Emel - much appreciated ?
I feel more reassured now and guess I must just be patient. There was so much conflicting advice on the internet about pieris pruning so good to hear about some first hand experiences. I'll keep you posted on progress.