Young Passiflora are initially quite reserved in their growth, but then suddenly take off and become very large very quickly - heights of six meters and more are not uncommon, and not just in the wild. In addition, the passion flower develops many tendrils, which can be a problem before being moved to winter quarters due to the sheer size of the plant.
How do I cut back a passion flower for overwintering?
To prepare a passion flower for winter quarters, cut back all shoots and tendrils except for the main shoot. Shorten this to 15-20 cm above the ground. The plant tolerates pruning well and will sprout again next year.
Cutting back passion flowers for winter quarters
Fortunately, the passion flower tolerates radical pruning very well and simply grows new shoots and tendrils the following year. The cut doesn't harm its flowering ability either; the plant simply grows too quickly for that. Some guides warn against autumn pruning so as not to further weaken the passiflora before the winter break. In fact, the plant tolerates cutting very well, so you can grab scissors and cut back all the shoots and tendrils. It is sufficient to simply shorten the main shoot to 15 to 20 centimeters above the ground.
Tips & Tricks
Passiflora are not hardy and should therefore always overwinter in a cool, but frost-free and bright room.
