Pruning Lantana In The Summer Heat

08.1.2011 - Lantana can be found in almost every single desert landscape. They are one of the hardiest plants to grow in hot, dry, arid climates. Do you have an area with reflective heat? Need a plant that won't become a buffet for rabbits and squirrels? Are you looking for a plant that can survive on minimal water? If so, lantanas are the answer.

There are literally dozens of lantana varieties. You can get them for a couple of dollars at any home improvement store or garden center. They come in every color of the rainbow and some bushes have several colors on each flower.

We all know you can cut back your lantana to the ground once the threat of frost has passed, but how can you get your lantana to look their best in 110 degree temperatures? It's pretty easy!

Once your lantana bush has bloomed in the summer, go ahead and cut it back. Prune it to shape, remove any dried out or frizzled branches and that's it! When you prune, do not cut them back to the ground like you do in the winter. Lantana do not grow during the winter months and by pruning in late February or early March you are getting the plant ready for its spring season takeoff. Pruning to the ground in the summer will most likely lead to severe sunburn and possibly plant death.

How much do you prune? Cut back anywhere from 3 inches to 8 or 9 inches. As a rule of thumb it's safe to prune around a third of the plant. Water thoroughly and leave it alone. Too much water will cause the lantana plant to rot or fail to bloom again. By trimming the lantana in the summer within a couple of weeks you will see fresh new blooms. Pruning encourages plant growth and prevents the lantana from becoming too leggy.

Lastly, be careful when you are pruning lantana around your pets. Double check that you've discarded all parts of the plant, including the berries. They are poisonous to dogs. The berries are silver and over time they turn a dark blue black color.