Wire vine: when and how to prune

Wire vine: when to prune it?

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In April, cut it back after winter; during the growing season (up to August) you can trim it whenever you like.

What else to prune in those months? April · July

Wire vine: how to prune it?

1. In April, remove dead or frosted stems and shorten shoots that are too long.
2. You can prune it hard, to 20–30 cm above the ground: it usually shoots again from the base.
3. Keep shapes or screens tidy with scissors or small hedge shears; trim little and often rather than a lot in one go.
4. Thin out a dense, tangled mass by removing old stems at the base, so light and air can get in.

How much to cut, and how often?

• There are 2 pruning periods a year: April and July. You don’t have to prune in every one.

What does it mean for wildlife?

• Pruning in April and July can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
• Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.

Common mistakes

• Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.

Nearby: related pruning guides

• Climbing hydrangea
• Grapevine
• Hardy kiwi
• Ivy
• Kiwi vine
• Wisteria

Plant profile: Wire vine · Pruning calendar and basic rules