Pruning Flowering Trees & Shrubs

Fuchsia

• Scientific Name

  Fuchsia spp.
• Image & Information

  

  Fuchsia 'Susie Olcese'

  Fuchsia are susceptible to frost damage. Therefore, this guide recommends pruning in mid-March, after the threat of freezing temperatures has passed. However, some Marin locations seldom freeze at night, and some fuchsia varieties are very hardy. If frost damage is not an issue, earlier pruning is possible and will promote earlier flowering.

  Fuchsias are susceptible to fuchsia gall mites, whiteflies and spider mites. Infected branches should be cut to at least six inches below the visible damage, and the cuttings should be placed in the landfill, not in the green waste or in a compost bin.

• When to Prune

  February
• Flowers/Fruit on New or Old Wood

  New Wood
• How & What to Prune

  Remove dead, diseased, or damaged wood.

  Use thinning and releadering cuts to remove or shorten crossing branches. Leave at least two or three healthy leaf buds on each branch.

  Then, use thinning and releadering cuts to open the plant or to reduce its height and width, as necessary.

  Frequently pinch the tips of the branches during the spring and summer to force side growth, making the fuchsia bushier. Pick off flowers as they fade.

  Remove seedpods during the growing season so the plants continue to produce new blooms.