Bower vine (Pandorea jasminoides)

Photo: Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source

Pruning guide · Climber

Bower vine: when and how to prune

Pandorea jasminoides

Bower vine is best pruned in March.

Key facts
Pruning monthsMarch
Nesting season (15 March–15 August)Take care in March
FloweringJune–September
Native to BelgiumNo, planted

Bower vine: when to prune it?

In March, before growth starts. It flowers on young shoots, so spring pruning does not cost you any flowers.

What else to prune in those months? March

Bower vine: how to prune it?

  1. Shorten last year’s side shoots to 2–3 buds.
  2. Cut dead, weak or damaged stems right out.
  3. Thin out overcrowded stems so light and air can get in.
  4. Leave a few long main shoots for shape; they can climb up the support.
  5. An overgrown plant can be pruned hard; it shoots again from old wood.

How much to cut, and how often?

  • One pruning period a year: March.

What does it mean for wildlife?

  • Pruning in March 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.

Caution: Do not prune in autumn just before overwintering: you will then find no frost-free space for large branches.

Nearby: related pruning guides

Plant profile: Bower vine · Pruning calendar and basic rules

This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.

Laden…