Overgrown Jasmine plants can be brought back to a manageable state by pruning the vines. Most varieties of Jasmine produce fragrant blooms in spring and thrive in U.S. Department of Agriculture Hardiness Zones 7 through 9. Continuous growth throughout the year makes these varieties of Jasmine a perennial in Zones 7 through 9 or an annual in cooler areas. Pruning helps prevent and manage overgrown vines that will reach up to 20 feet long.
Cut off Jasmine vines that appear dead, damaged or have symptoms of disease at the base of the plant. Throw away vines that are diseased to prevent spreading the infection to other branches or plants.
Prune and remove the top two-thirds of the Jasmine plant if the lower stems and base of the plant are lush and healthy to promote new growth.
Cut all branches or vines of the Jasmine plant off about 6 inches from ground level if the lower one-third of the plant is spindly or the entire plant is unmanageable. Intensive pruning promotes healthy, lush growth and keeps the plant at a manageable size. This step can be done every year in late winter to promote spring growth.
Cut branches off close to the main stem to keep the plant a balanced size if it has root damage due to pests or disease. This will prevent stress to the root system while it recovers from the damage. Prune the Jasmine evenly around all sides instead of just on the side where you see damage to maintain an eye-pleasing appearance.
Remove all branches or vines at the main stem if they are tangled or growing in the wrong direction.
Things You Will Need
- Pruning clipper
- Household bleach
- Disinfect pruning clipper blades to prevent the spread of disease by washing them with a solution of one part household bleach and nine parts water. Wash the blades between each cut when using the clipper on branches with visible signs of disease or before pruning healthy plants.
- Jasmine grows as an annual in cooler growing zones and should be pruned in late fall or early spring for best results.
- Install a trellis or support structure behind Jasmine so you can train the plant and prevent tangled branches.
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