Ceanothus problems

I have a 16ft spring flowering Ceanothus in the front which looks stunning when it comes out. Unfortunately I did not cut it back after flowering this year, and it looks a bit large now. So I'm just wondering if I prune it back now, will I still get a show in spring?

Also, one branch appears to have died off (see pics). Any ideas why? The gas board laid new pipes and were working right below the bush, it's possible they cut through a root, but I'd have thought that would affect the whole plant and not just a branch.

 

Wow she is close to the front entrance.I would be frightened for roots growing under the house being that close.

I think giving a good prune would not stop from giving new growth next year not sure about flowering.
Maybe someone else here can give you better advice.
My Ceanothus is on my back garden growing in the border and is in full bloom ,she is in her 3rd year a youngster really when she stops flowering shall prune back she is nearly 5ft high but dont want her growing much taller.

Shall keep her contained.

 

Yes, I understand re roots! But fortunately the whole house and garage is on 6ft of concrete base so I'm not too concerned. I'm 50/50 on whether I love it for it's spring colour, or if it's a menace because it dominates the front! I'm thinking about putting a porch on that front door, which would mean it coming down. I can just imagine the neighbours "ooh, such a shame, you know the previous owner used to look after that plant like it was one of his own..." etc etc!

 

Personally I would take down and relocate or if you like so much buy a new one.

I have seen some lovely standard ceanothus in containers in gardens ,could even plant a standard in border and keep well maintained.

I think you would know a big difference on the light that can come in if taken down.

Best of luck whatever you decide.

 

My ceanothus is really struggling this year, I must have planted it in a cold patch and the winds in February upset it a little. Unfortunately you cannot move them, no matter how hard you protect them with a large rootball etc they just die. It might be best to get a new one if you do decide to build a porch. Or you could try taking a few cuttings?

 

I had a ceanothus that had die back this year too, I cut it out then later more died so I cut it right back and now it seems to be growing ok, mine was only 5ft high though and I used to trim it after flowering in the spring every year to keep the same height. So fingers crossed it might grow back ok now!