How to Prune Wisteria

Wisteria is spring-time eye candy. A riot of gorgeous clusters of purple or white blooms, it drapes itself wherever the vines are directed, and produces a rich fragrance that’s a pleasure to sniff. To optimize blooming and help maintain your plant’s health, here's how to prune Wisteria.

Things You'll Need

• Pruning shears
• Gardener's gloves

Instructions

1. Check for winter die-off. As new growth begins to push out, inspect your plant for any stems that show signs of having died during the winter. They simply won’t show any signs of growth. Prune these stems off using sharp shears for a clean cut.

2. Let the plant go through its bloom cycle. Don’t prune any further until it’s done blooming.

3. Prune branches to a maximum length of 3 feet from the main stem to increase more blooms next season.

4. Thin vines or plant out for more sunlight. Wisteria blooms enjoy sunlight. Make sure you thin out some of the stems to ensure sunlight can penetrate throughout the vine.

Tips & Warnings

• When your Wisteria vines have reached the height you want, “top off” the main stem. The result will be more branching.

• Check with your local nursery as to what type of Wisteria you have, or before you buy. Some varieties can live but will not bloom in certain climates. Make sure you get one that blooms best for your region.

• "Bee" careful--bees love Wisteria. Don't plant the vine or plant in a high traffic area where bees and passersby may collide.

Resources

• Wisteria Varieties