What to do with this bush?

9 years ago

Hello,

I'm new to this forum and new to gardening in general.

I recently purchased a property in Calgary, Alberta. In the backyard there is this large bush (see photo). Earlier in the spring it appeared to be dead, but there are some new sprouts growing on what look like dead branches. Other dead branches simply snap off because they're obviously dead.

What can I do with this bush? Should I cut it all the way down to its roots and see what happens? Or is this bush in such a state that I should remove it altogether? It grows next to a brick wall (the backyard is tiered) and so I'm worried that by removing the roots, the wall may shift.

Thanks in advance!

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Comments (2)

ljvdz
Original Author
9 years ago
Here's a close-up of the bush.
les1238
9 years ago
Some of my shrubs, notably fuschia and hydrangea, completely die back in winter leaving dead looking bushes like yours. They then start popping once frost has past and become beautiful. I've learned to cut them back when dormant--otherwise I've got alot of dead stuff mixed with fresh growth all Summer long.

Shaping what you've got there into a cleaner fan profile is not going to kill this mystery plant. And you may be pleasantly surprised by what develops from the new growth. And if not, slice it off at ground level, don't bother with the roots, and drop a big rock on what's left. Call it hardscaping. :)

PTL

P.S. If you decide to let it grow out, would you mind posting a pic of the mature leaf when it fluffs out? That may give others a better idea of what you've got there and what to do with it.
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