Tip of the Month April 2007

Spring Pruning of Blue Mist Spirea

Blue Mist Spirea along with Dark Knight Spirea, Pink Chablis Spirea and First Choice Spirea are widely used in Colorado landscapes. The plants produce beautiful blue flowers in the late summer, a time when many landscapes need a splash of color because spring flowers are fading.

Unfortunately these plants are not totally hardy for our area and thus they die back on the tips of the plants. At this time of year you will need to give the plants a good haircut. Cut back only the top ½ of the plants, leaving the base intact.

Do not cut these plants to the ground. Applying a tree and shrub fertilizer in April will ensure that you will have another crop of blue flowers this July and August.

As always please feel free to call our office at 506-2727 with any questions.