Prune annually in late winter or very early spring before flower buds develop (D). Pruning of multiple plants is easiest done with a manual hedge shear, while just a plant or two can be done with pruners. Prune to remove 1/3 to 1/2 of the average stem length of the leafy part of the stems, forming a compact mound shape. New invigorated growth will rapidly emerge. This annual hard cut back will keep the plant looking good and living longer. Santolinas that do not get this annual maintenance often get woody and decline in a few years after planting (S). Leggy mature plants can be cut back to a few inches tall just before spring growth begins to try to reset the form (5). They will usually grow back, but may not, so it is best to stay on top of more frequent annual pruning (S). References