Forsythia.

Forsythia

Overgrown shrubs look unkempt and unattractive and don't bloom well. Thinning the dense foliage-covered branches of this forsythia allows light and air to penetrate and improve its health.

 

Step 1.

1. The first step is to cut back excessively long branches. Clip them off where a leaf emerges back on the stem near the main mass of foliage. Avoid making them all identical lengths.

 

Step 2.

2. Reach deep within the dense tangle of branches, clip off particularly large or twiggy ones to the point where they join a main branch.

 

Step 3.

3. Once its general shape is established, give the shrub a final once-over. Be sure no branches rub against walls or tangle in nearby plants.