Can Weigela And Deutzia Be Severely Pruned If Struggling Or Overgrown

Question From: J. Gross - Collegeville, Pennsylvania, United States
Q: I have an approx. 10-15 year old weiglea which has been struggling since those two very cold winters (I lost 2 butterfly and ground heather to wind burn). It has a very woody interior, not full of leaves and few flowers. I thought I'd severely prune to 12" but am concerned as to what will grow back. Same for Deutzia...woody and overgrown. I am willing to sacrifice blooms this year for a healthier plant. Please help! Attached pic is from 5/3/2015
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A: Both shrubs can be cut back hard now. Be sure to keep them irrigated. I would fertilize them with Espoma Plant Tone according to package directions. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy