Deutzias aren’t exactly known for being speed-demons when it comes to growth. Because they take their time, these shrubs are pretty low-maintenance and won’t demand much of your time with pruning shears. In fact, you can get away with not pruning them at all! However, a little strategic trimming can offer some great benefits for your garden. Here’s why you might want to give your Deutzia a haircut and exactly how to do it.
Encourage a Second Bloom
Many gardeners take the “set it and forget it” approach with Deutzias and still enjoy a beautiful plant. But if you want to level up, the right cut can actually encourage a second flush of flowers. The secret is all in the timing. By deadheading at the right moment, the plant stops putting energy into fading blooms and redirects it toward producing new flowers for late summer.
To get started, you’ll need a sharp pair of bypass pruners. You’ll want to prune in June or July, just as the first round of Deutzia blossoms begins to wilt. Make sure your shears are clean to prevent any garden “germs” from entering the cuts. Here is your quick step-by-step guide:
How to prune for more flowers:
- Pop on some gardening gloves.
- Disinfect your pruning shears.
- Cut back the flowered stems by about one-third.
- Trim back any “leggy” or overly long shoots to keep the shape tidy.
- Thin out the center of the bush slightly to let air flow through.
Keeping Your Deutzia Healthy and Vibrant
Pruning isn’t just about looks; it’s about health. To keep your Deutzia vigorous, I recommend a “maintenance cut” at least every three years. This involves removing old, woody stems that aren’t producing as many flowers anymore. Look for branches that seem dried out or overly thick and cut them back right down to the base of the plant.
Gardeners call this a “rejuvenation prune.” It helps the shrub focus its energy on fresh, succulent new growth and ensures plenty of sunlight reaches the center of the plant. You can tackle this type of pruning on a frost-free day in late winter or right after the flowering season ends.
Propagate While You Prune
The best part about pruning? Free plants! You can easily use your trimmings to propagate new Deutzias. If you want to try this, summertime is the best time to take cuttings. Look for healthy, green shoots in the middle of the shrub. You’re looking for a piece about 8 to 12 inches long that isn’t too woody yet.
Strip the leaves off the bottom half of the cutting, then tuck that bare end into a pot filled with high-quality starting soil. Place the pot in a bright spot, but keep it out of direct, scorching afternoon sun so it doesn’t dry out too fast. Keep the soil consistently moist, but make sure the pot has good drainage—nobody likes soggy feet!