Radically cutting barberries »How to rejuvenate the berberis

The choice of date depends on the weather and the Federal Nature Conservation Act

The radical pruning of barberries and all other shrubs calls the legislature on the scene. When pruning deeply, protecting breeding birds is a top priority. The Federal Nature Conservation Act therefore stipulates that tapering cuts - called `` put on the stick '' in technical jargon - are limited to the period from 1. October to 28. February.

The specific choice of date within this time window depends on the weather. Ideally, choose a frost-free day with dry weather and no blazing sunshine. In gardening practice it has been found that a light frost of - 2 degrees Celsius does not affect the result.

Radical cut - how to do it right

Before you dedicate yourself to rejuvenating your sourthorn bushes, the focus is on protecting your health.

Berberis species are not only poisonous, but have thorns up to 4 cm long. On various varieties, the leaf margins are even reinforced with pointed spikes. You should therefore put on thorn-proof clothing, boots, gauntlets and protective goggles. How to radically cut back barberry:

• Shorten all shoots to a length of 10 cm
• Select the cutting depth so that at least one leaf node remains
• Cut off dead branches at the base

Barberries also sprout again as old wood, if they are given the opportunity in the form of sleeping eyes. These vegetation points are recognizable as slight elevations under or on the bark. Put the scissors a short distance over a sleeping person eye on, the dormant growth energies are activated. It is important to note a smooth cut without frayed edges. Sharpen Use the scissors with a whetstone beforehand.