pruning
"A good rule of thumb with any pruning is like in cutting lumber, measure twice, cut once. Try to visualize what the tree or shrub will look like when the branch(es) is removed, and certainly have a mental image of what you want the finished product to look like after you are done pruning, otherwise you'll go too far. The hibiscus would probably benefit from a dormancy period. Allow the plant to dry and drop leaves, keeping it barely moist for about 6 - 8 weeks. Then move it to a warm, bright location with some direct sunlight daily, and begin watering heavier, allowing only the top one-half inch of soil to dry. Fertilize only during active periods of growth."
"Crape what? Murder. Actually, it is crape myrtle murder. Chopping off the tops of these otherwise graceful, tree-like shrubs is commonplace in East Texas, and unnecessary. Just look around. You see it happening every winter in yards, city parks, and on school grounds primarily for three reasons, people see their neighbors doing it; it is mistakenly thought this is the only way to produce blooms; and the variety of crape myrtle is either too tall or wide for the location. "
Usually you really can't hurt a tree by pruning it too much. A tree, somewhat like hair, will grow back if given enough time.

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