Question From: G. Prichard - ALABAMA
Q: Nancy: I have two, mature snowball bushes. They have been fine for years, but now have only half of bush leafing and blooming. The other half (randomly distributed) appears to be dead. I tried to upload a picture, but site times out. This change occurred after a trim in January. Thank you!
A: These shrubs are best pruned for shape just after blooming. To rejuvenate the plant take out one-third (1/3) of the oldest stems every year. Cut them to 4 to 6 inches above the ground. In 3 years your older plants will be rejuvenated. This is done in late winter or early spring. Scrape the bark that looks to be dead to see if there is green underneath. If it's dead remove it. Cause of dieback could be old age, winter kill or even chemical burn. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy
