I have several bushes/ shrubs (lilacs, rose of Sharon, roses) that I need to prune to shape and control the unruly, neglected growth. Does one just live with the plants "crown" or growth at the base of the plant when pruning these plants? I like a clean, open look to my shrubs, but when I cut and shape there remains a huge clump of plant... I do not want to replace the plant for the aesthetic look I am striving for, but is there a way to cover or conceal these unsightly clumps of plant base? Over time will this area rot and I can dig it out? or will that damage the remaining healthy plant?

Thanks, Kristi