Even an easy-care broom needs a little attention in the form of a pruning every now and then. Without this it won't shrink, but its appearance sometimes leaves a lot to be desired. So grab the garden shears.
When is the right time to cut gorse?
Broom should ideally be cut after flowering in June. Pruning is possible in both spring and autumn and should be carried out annually or every three to four years to keep the plant he althy and blooming.
Does gorse need to be cut regularly?
Regular pruning is definitely recommended for gorse. This will keep the plant he althy and blooming. Over time, the gorse tends to become woody and no longer produces flowers on these woody shoots. After a few years, your gorse will only bloom in the upper area while the lower area becomes increasingly bare.
When should I best cut my gorse?
Your gorse can be pruned in both spring and autumn. An annual cut is usually sufficient, or alternatively every three to four years. Ideally, you should do it after the flowering period in June.
Although the real gorse (Bot. Genista) is quite winter hardy, every now and then a (young) shoot freezes. So always check your gorse in spring for dry twigs and remove them immediately.
Can gorse also tolerate radical pruning?
The gorse is quite robust and can tolerate quite radical pruning. However, this should not be done too often. You can shorten your gorse to around 35 to 40 centimeters approximately every three to five years.
But make sure that at least one branch remains. This means the plant will sprout again beautifully bushy. A radical cut should not take place in late autumn, otherwise the broom could suffer frost damage. The exception to this rule is a broom in a pot or bucket. However, it should then overwinter frost-free.
What you need to know about pruning gorse:
- possible: in early spring and/or autumn
- annually or every 3 to 4 years
- ideal: after flowering in June
- always remove frozen and diseased shoots as soon as possible
Tip
Regular pruning not only keeps your gorse he althy, it also ensures lush flowering.