Will pruning make my viburnum bushier?

Yes, pruning stimulates new growth from the nodes below the cut. This helps the plant fill out and look less sparse.

Can I prune it at any time?

It is best to prune right after flowering. Pruning at the wrong time can remove next year's flower buds.

Why is my viburnum looking so leggy? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Observe the plant throughout the day to track sunlight exposure.
Look for other plants that might be blocking the light.
Check if the branches have been pruned in the last year.

Likely causes

Lack of Sunlight
Most likely
How to tell: The branches are long and thin with large gaps between the leaves. The plant is leaning toward the nearest light source.
What to do: Move the viburnum to a brighter spot that gets more direct sunlight. If it is already in the ground, consider thinning out nearby plants that might be shading it.
Lack of Pruning
Possible
How to tell: The shrub has become overgrown and woody at the bottom. Regular pruning helps maintain a bushy shape and encourages new growth.
What to do: Prune back the long, straggly branches by one third after the plant finishes flowering. This encourages the plant to grow fuller and bushier from the base.

Leggy growth in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your viburnum

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Legginess is mostly an aesthetic issue, but it can make the plant more susceptible to pests. It is normal for older viburnums to lose some lower leaves as they grow taller.

Stopping it coming back

Prune annually to maintain shape and ensure the plant receives consistent light on all sides.

Viburnum: leggy growth? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your viburnum and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Will pruning make my viburnum bushier?: Yes, pruning stimulates new growth from the nodes below the cut. This helps the plant fill out and look less sparse.
Can I prune it at any time?: It is best to prune right after flowering. Pruning at the wrong time can remove next year's flower buds.

Why is my viburnum looking so leggy?