Pruning

Calluna vulgaris- Cut back last years flowering branches to a point below the bare stems where last years flowers were. Remember that lush, new growth will start at the point where you cut but not on the bare stems , so don't be afraid to cut back hard to prevent legginess. This is important on the taller cultivars that grow 10 to 18 inch new flowering branches each season. Prune also for shape. New growth is thick and quickly hides any bare spots. You may also cut back after flowering but not after September 1st. as new growth needs time to harden off before winter sets in.

Erica carnea and E.x darlyensis - These winter blooming heaths do just fine if left alone. Pruning is only necessary to keep them in bounds or to remove damaged stems. Cut just after blooms have faded as new flower buds form during the summer months.

Erica tetralix, E.watsonii and E.williamsii- These summer blooming Ericas should be pruned in early spring also. They are all naturally compact, although spring pruning stimulates heavy flowering branches and a more compact plant. You may cut after the heaviest bloom to stimulate a second blooming.

Erica cinerea - Winter injury is common on this Species in very cold climates or exposed locations. A hard pruning in early spring will promote new growth that will quickly replace any injured stems. This new flush of foliage will produce many flowering branches if pruning is done early enough.

Erica vagans - This Summer bloomer often suffers from stem splitting when the winters are rough. Many times in the Spring I have cut the tattered stems off completely to the ground only to be rewarded with vigorous new growth which would be covered with flowers by Summer.

Bruckenthalia spiculifolia - The flowering stems that bloom so heavily in May with a scent of anise should be cut when the blooms are finished. This usually spurs the growth of many new flower buds.