Question
Dear Mr. Gulliksen,

Im looking for advice on trimming and pruninng my Hollandia broom (Hollandia cytisus).  I moved into a house just over a year ago and the bush has grown quite a bit since I moved in, so much so that the branches that once stood upright are leaning over and touching my lawn.  I was wondering, is it possible to cut the branches that are hanging over my lawn at their base.  Also, can I thin out the bush by cutting back the green needles and braches or will this damage the bush?  If I can thin it out, what is the best time of year to do so.  The plant has not yet flowered this year.

Thank You in Advance,

Sean


Answer
Sean,
Pruning on Brooms needs to be done after it flowers. You can cut back into the older wood slightly, this will encourage stronger shoot growth. Hollandia brooms flower on older growth wood, so it is permissible to remove the newer growth after the plant is done flowering.
You could thin it out by cutting select stems to the ground. Thinning will help to stimulate bushier growth.
Thanks,
Ed Gulliksen