How to Prune Honeysuckle

If you have ever tried to prune or get rid of a honeysuckle vine then you know firsthand how frustrating it can be. Some people love the honeysuckle vine because it is easy to grow, is good at covering up unwanted eyesores, offers privacy if used as a border, and has a lovely fragrance. While, other people despise the honeysuckle vine typically because it can become unruly and grow out of control in unwanted places. Like most other vines it is very difficult to prune, it is also very hard to kill. If you would like to prune back your honeysuckle vine it is best to do so in the winter, continuing reading for more helpful tips about successfully pruning honeysuckle.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Gloves
• Sheers
• Wheelbarrel
• Rake

1. First, make plans to prune the honeysuckle vine during the dormant season (winter), even though pruning may be attempted at any time after blooming has occurred. Only prune well established honeysuckle vines.

2. Remove a significant portion of the upper branches when you prune. This will probably be difficult because the honeysuckle branches (vines) will be intertwined within one another and with nearby plants and trees.

3. Try to cut back the majority of the top half of the plant. Leaving the plant standing at about two feet is a good size.

4. When you are satisfied consider placing mulch around the base of the plant to prevent weed growth and to conserve water (the plant will need extra water after pruning).

5. Place the cut pieces of vine into a wheelbarrel and rake up any other trimmings.

Tips & Warnings

• Some people like to prune honeysuckle in the late Spring.
• After pruning always give the plant extra water.
• Be careful of poison oak or poison ivy... honeysuckle tends to become intertwined with other plants.
• Never prune honeysuckle that is less than two years old.
• After severe pruning the honeysuckle vine will often re-grow rapidly, but may fail to flower.