A concerned reader from Prades (30140 Thoiras, 300m altitude) asks: Hello Daniel, Can you give us some advice? Our mimosa didn't survive days at -10°C—it's dried out and crumbles when touched! Should we cut it? If yes, when and protect it afterward? Thanks, Bea.
Winter struck mimosas hard this year, worsened by dehydrating winds. At February's end, with sunny 15°C days (recorded yesterday in the shade), gardens lack their signature yellow glow. Even sheep are eyeing pebbles amid the parched scrubland!
Hold off: Scorched leaves don't mean dead wood. New shoots may emerge anywhere along branches—midway, lower, or higher. Patience reveals the tree's vitality.
Come April or May, prune just above new growth. Balance the tree by aligning branch heights and removing dry wood. This method suits sauce laurels, tin laurels, Japanese privet, and other evergreens with burned foliage. April is prime for evergreen pruning.
Gardening builds patience, especially post-harsh winters.
Pro tip: Water regularly. Bulbs and evergreens crave hydration now.
