Lupins
supporting structure needs to be large.
Make sure there is adequate access for pruning purposes and be certain to do this at least twice per year, once in late winter and after flowering during July and August. Cut back to the desired framework of the climber, taking care to prune just above a young, strong shoot, ideally around 20cm long from the main stems. Clear away any suckers that appear near the roots and remove unwanted shoots completely to preserve the desired shape.
Whippy new growth can extend up to two metres long every year, so the secateurs will be kept busy during Wisteria taming season. But it’ s worth the effort. Meticulous pruning will ensure that the plant won’ t have a chance to rampage through guttering or become unruly. These twining plants can even be trained onto an umbrella-shaped frame, with fabulous results.
By Caroline Knight
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