A rule of thumb is to not prune more than a third of the existing foliage and to carefully prune stems so that removal is evenly distributed for a balanced look. Oleanders can be shaped into conical, multistem bouquets. This form is similar to the natural multistem, globose shape of the oleander, but pruned to have a more narrow base. And oleanders can be pruned into multistem forms or single-trunk small trees, but these require more pruning maintenance. A newly planted oleander will need a little care, but once established, maintenance is usually minimal.
Oleanders thrive in a well-draining soil enriched with some compost.
The plants will bloom in partial shade, but full sun encourages a profusion of flowers. Oleanders require little or no fertilizer. Mail garden questions to Kathy Huber, garden editor, Houston Chronicle, P.O. Box 4260, Houston, TX 77210. The bulk of mail prevents individual replies to each letter.