How To Get Wisteria Vines To Bloom

Question From: W. wiegel - Parkersburg, West Virginia, United States
Q: How can I get wisteria vines to bloom in the spring? They are 6 years old, grow vines wildly and have to be pruned often.

A: Root prune the wisteria - using a sharp shovel make a circle around the plant by sinking the sharp blade into the ground. It should be at least three feet from the trunk. In late winter, using a freshly sharpened pair of pruners cut branches back to 4 buds. In late July cut the new growth back to about an arms length. Do not fertilize the shrub as this will stimulate lanky growth that will not bloom. Good Luck, Nancy