Lanky Lavatera

Greetings from Shoreham-by-Sea. When is this wind going to die down?!

I am weeks if not months behind in potting on some Lavatera that are in flower, but have become tall and devoid of leaf. I don't suppose cutting back will work at this stage, will it?

Thanks...

 

The wind is almost permanent here this year too ennnceee.

Is it the wind that's the problem for your potting on and are the Lavatera the full size ones or dwarf?

 

No, not the wind, just I let them go in the pots I bought them in and they've become lanky and fairly leafless, but flower is a lovely dark purpleish (I'm sure there's a better word!) colour. Full size, but around 18" now, I guess. Just wondering if I let them get on with it, or whether they would take any pruning at this stage. A bit quieter here this morning.

 

They may have lost their leaves because they need feeding. If they were in multi-purpose compost the nutrients are used up after approximately six weeks. Do you intend to plant them out because they sound as if they are ready for that? Meanwhile I think I would take a couple of inches off the top and that will induce them to branch out.

 

Will do, and thanks.