I need to trim back rosemary thats growing onto the sidewalk. any ideas how it can be trimmed without hurting it? can you trim the tops of them down also and is this time of year ok. thanks for your help.
Please check out the PlantAmnesty website http://www.plantamnesty.org. This is a great site to that has Regional pruning guides are available complete with drawings that show how to make good pruning cuts. PlantAmnesty -promotes awareness and respect for plants. -encourages proper pruning techniques. -alerts and educate the public. -improves landscape management practices. -volunteers in our communities. -provides a free referral/reference service.
One of the most valuable sources of info on pruning is the pruning of trees shrubs and conifers by George E Brown ISBN 0 571 11084. I use it frequently. Well worth searching for a copy
Reference cited above says, in part "Some pruning after flowering may be undertaken with advantage when long branches may be cut to suitable growths. These are plentiful on a vigorous growing bush and by this means it is kept more compact. A Rosemary hedge is trimmed after flowering." If it's driving you crazy you'll have to reduce it now to get relief. Amount of re-leaf that occurs after will depend on what condition the plants are in, if old and woody response may be limited.
