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When is the best time to prune a broom shrub?

The best time to prune a broom shrub (Cytisus scoparius) depends on what you're trying to achieve:

For general maintenance and shaping:

* After flowering: Prune immediately after flowering in late spring or early summer. This helps maintain a tidy shape and encourages new growth for next year's flowers.

* Late winter or early spring: If you need to do more significant pruning, such as removing dead or diseased branches, you can do it in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.

For encouraging more flowers:

* After flowering: Pruning after flowering encourages new growth and promotes more blooms the following year.

For controlling size:

* Early spring: You can prune back the stems to encourage bushier growth and control the overall size of the plant.

Things to avoid:

* Pruning in late summer or fall: This can encourage new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter, making it susceptible to frost damage.

General tips:

* Use sharp, clean pruning tools.

* Prune back to a bud or a branch junction.

* Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches.

* Be careful not to prune too close to the base of the plant.

* For a more natural shape, prune selectively rather than cutting back everything evenly.

Note: Some cultivars of broom shrub, such as those with variegated leaves, may need different pruning methods. Always check with the specific variety's care instructions before pruning.

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