Seven plants to prune for better flowers

Caryopteris

Caryopteris bloom on the current year's growth, so are well-suited to some hard pruning in spring, to encourage vigorous new growth and keep them looking tidy, for masses of autumn flowers. Do this by cutting down last year's growth, to buds held on the old, woody growth. Also, don't forget to remove any weak or diseased stems.

Hardy fuchsia

Hardy fuchsias, including 'Army Nurse' and 'Lady Boothby', can be relied on to retain a framework of branches through winter. Prune them in early spring as new shoots are appearing, by cutting back each branch to a pair of buds, 7-10cm from the ground. Don't grow fuchsias? Here are 10 varieties of fuchsia to consider.

Hibiscus

Despite their tropical associations, there are many varieties of hardy hibiscus that can be grown in the UK, such as Hibiscus sinosyriacum 'Lilac Queen'. While they can be left to grow to the size of a small tree, you can prune them each spring in the same way you would rose bushes, to keep them compact and encourage them to produce more flowers.

Lavatera

With their large, open flowers, it's no wonder lavatera are such good plants for bees. Some annual spring pruning helps to keep their shape compact and produce the best blooms. They flower on new growth, so all old growth should be cut down to around 30cm from the ground.

Leycesteria

A vigorous and easy-to-grow shrub, the pheasant berry (Leycesteria formosa) should be kept in check by hard pruning it in spring. Reduce all of the previous year's growth to a framework of branches, close to the base of the plant. This will encourage strong new growth and produce a more attractive shape. Birds will love the berries, too.

Perovskia

Perovskia, commonly known as Russian sage, are beautiful sub-shrubs that release a pleasant aromatic fragrance when brushed past. To keep them tidy and ensure masses of flowers, wait until the buds are coming into leaf, then prune right back to create a woody framework around 5cm from the ground.

Spiraea

If you're growing Spiraea japonica, with its spectacular white flowers, you can encourage a compact shape by hard pruning it at the beginning of spring. Do this by cutting all old growth to create a woody framework, 10-15cm from the ground.