One of the biggest downsides to growing Cape Leadwort (Plumbago) is just how fast it grows. If you let it go wild, it doesn’t just lose its shape—it actually wastes so much energy on foliage that it doesn’t have enough left over for those beautiful blue blooms. That’s why keeping your pruning shears handy is a must!
Grab Your Shears in the Spring
If you want a spectacular flower show, a heavy pruning in early spring is non-negotiable. Here’s the secret: Leadwort only produces flowers on new growth. To get the best results, you’ll want to completely cut out any old or sickly-looking wood and then cut the remaining healthy stems back quite aggressively. Aim to do this sometime in February or March.
Maintenance During the Growing Season
The good news is that Leadwort is a real trooper when it comes to pruning, so don’t be afraid to give it a “haircut” throughout the summer to keep it looking tidy. Regular thinning helps the plant grow much more compact and bushy. Plus, if you’re looking to propagate your Leadwort, May and June are the perfect months to take cuttings. Just snip off a 4-to-6-inch stem, strip the lower leaves and any flowers, and pop it into some seed-starting mix to let it root.
Prepping for Winter
Since Leadwort isn’t native to our colder climates, it isn’t hardy enough to survive a freeze. To get it ready for winter storage, you’ll need to dig it up and cut the stems back by at least half. This makes life a lot easier for a few reasons:
- It takes up way less space in your garage or basement.
- It’s much easier to spot any pests or diseases.
- The plant won’t need as much water while it’s resting.
- You won’t have nearly as many dead leaves to clean up.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try leaving your Leadwort outdoors in a milder climate, you’ll need to be even more radical with your pruning. Cut it back significantly and make sure to tuck it in under a thick layer of garden fleece or mulch to protect it from the frost.
