When & How to Prune Indian Hawthorn Shrubs?
Indian hawthorn (Raphiolepis indica), a native of Southern China, is an evergreen flowering shrub in the rose family. It grows from 4 to 5 feet high. It has a 4-foot spread in a mounded shape. In the spring the Indian hawthorn blooms in white to dark pink flowers that make way for dark berries in the fall. Hardy to USDA zones 7 to 10, the Indian hawthorn requires little care. Pruning is rarely necessary. Should you need to do some light pruning, spring is the ideal time.
- Indian hawthorn (Raphiolepis indica), a native of Southern China, is an evergreen flowering shrub in the rose family.
- In the spring the Indian hawthorn blooms in white to dark pink flowers that make way for dark berries in the fall.
Prune when you want to improve your plant's form. Cut back any stray shoots that extend beyond the Indian hawthorn so that they are even with the plant.
You need to prune to remove any diseased or damaged stems, according to the University of Florida. Cut them back to the branch from which they originate.
Remove all pruning debris from the planting bed and rake the soil to the dripline. This is the tips of the longest branches.
Fertilize after pruning with a fertilizer for acid-loving plants, such as azalea food. Apply the fertilizer according to package directions. Water the plant after fertilizing.
- Prune when you want to improve your plant's form.
- Cut back any stray shoots that extend beyond the Indian hawthorn so that they are even with the plant.
Prune Indian Hawthorn Shrubs
Assess your Indian hawthorn shrub and take note of its natural habit. Formulate a pruning plan based on the location where you have planted the shrub and the look you desire. Allow the tools to air dry. Identify dead wood that is brittle and breaks easily. New growth is often a lighter green color and softer than old growth. Use hand pruners to make a cut 1/4 inch above a leaf, dormant bud or branch stem.
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Writer Bio
Based in the American Southwest, Bridget Kelly has been writing about gardening and real estate since 2005. Her articles have appeared at Trulia.com, SFGate.com, GardenGuides.com, RE/MAX.com, MarketLeader.com, RealEstate.com, USAToday.com and in "Chicago Agent" magazine, to name a few. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English with a concentration in creative writing.
