Aim to leave a balanced variety of old and new, big and small stems. This keeps the centre of the shrub open, which is important for good air circulation, and looks more natural. If the plant has opposite leaves and one bud is facing in the wrong direction, simply rub it off. Do not leave stubs above the buds, as they will die. Flowers will be sacrificed for the first year, and it may take a season or two for the plant to recover completely, but the overall improvement can be dramatic.
Some shrubs benefit from an annual or frequent hard cutting back.
For example, red osier dogwood, which is grown for its colourful stems, should be pruned every few years, as the youngest stems have the brightest colour. All rights reserved.