Does one cut back a first-year butterfly bush in the fall or leave as is for the winter and when and how should one cut it back? |
Several plants go by the common name Butterfly Bush, but I'm going to assume that you are referring to Buddleia davidii, which blooms on new growth. Therefore, stems should be pruned back in late winter/early spring to encourage large, lush flower spikes. You can let it grow into a shrub form, (which could eventually be about 12'x15') but your flower "show" won't be as spectacular. It's also a good idea to protect the root system during the winter by mounding dirt and mulch over it. If you are referring to a different plant, please send another email to the Q & A site. Good luck! |