Our Lavatera was going strong and still had new leaf growth as of this weekend, but now the snow and frigid air has flattened it like a pancake. Should I prune it now? The main stem (trunk?) is about 3 or 4 inches thick, so I'd need to actually use a saw. Should I just wait to see if it pops back up? It has generally been reaching in one direction, so I was hoping to prune it this spring to encourage more upright growth, but now, it's laying on our lawn. Advice appreciated and thanks!
Hi. I assume you didn't prune it at all at the end of summer. I prune mine down by half early or late Fall, as large snowfalls can split the main trunk if it's too tall, and perhaps damage the whole plant. In Spring I then cut it almost to the ground at the same time as I give it some compost and fertilizer.
