hebe jeebies

Discussion in 'General Gardening Discussion' started by exlabman, Feb 26, 2011.

  1. exlabman

    exlabman Gardener

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    Hi,
    My hebes approximately 2 years old have gone very brown after the cold weather.
    I have heard I should cut them back, but how far and when?
    Also my bay bushes are showing much brown foliage, do these need a good prune too.
    Thanks
    D
     
  2. Spruce

    Spruce Glad to be back .....

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    Hi

    I would check first to see if the hebe is still alive look near the base scrape away at the bark to see any green showing then I would leave alone for now as we could have more cold weather on the way and the top growth would help keep any more frost etc , I would leave until I see fresh growth then cut just above that .

    With your bay I would take my time and slowly go over it removing each leaf rather than cut into , what shape are your bays ? .
    Spruce
     
  3. ARMANDII

    ARMANDII Low Flying Administrator Staff Member

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    Hi Exlabman, spruce is right. It will be frost/cold damage. Be aware that Hebes don't like being cut back too much so Spruce's advice about trimming down to just above new growth is good. It may take some time to recover as Hebes aren't renown for their speed of growth.
     
  4. exlabman

    exlabman Gardener

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    Hi,
    the hebe has started sprouting at the ends of the stems.

    The bay trees have no shape as yet, still training them.

    Cheers
     
  5. Marley Farley

    Marley Farley Affable Admin! Staff Member

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    :scratch: Well I don't know about Bay trees, but I am as hard as heck with my Hebes every few years... I cut them right back after the frosts have gone.. About May ish, then feed the & keep them watered through the summer & in 2 yrs I have lovely little bushes covered in flowers & I let them grow till they get in the way again..... They are about 12-13 yrs old now & are a picture in full flower.. Even the 1st yr after they are cut, but that is my Hebes... :WINK1:
     
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