Pruning Bergenia 'Bressingham Ruby'

Bergenia 'Bressingham Ruby' requires very little pruning, but a light tidy-up in April or May keeps it looking its best. The main task is removing old, tatty leaves that have been damaged by winter weather or have simply aged. Because this cultivar is evergreen, the large, leathery leaves persist year-round, but older foliage can become brown-edged, torn, or unsightly by spring. In April or May, once the risk of hard frost has passed and new growth is emerging, cut away any damaged or dead leaves at the base using secateurs or a sharp knife. Work close to the crown but take care not to damage the emerging flower stems or fresh young leaves. If the clump has become congested or flowering has declined, this is also the time to lift and divide it. Dig up the whole plant, tease or cut the rhizomes apart into sections with healthy roots and shoots, and replant the vigorous outer portions, discarding the woody centre. After flowering finishes in late spring, you can deadhead the spent flower stems by cutting them back to the base. This isn't essential for the plant's health but improves appearance and prevents energy going into seed production. Avoid autumn or winter pruning of the foliage; even battered leaves provide some protection to the crown in cold weather, and the bronze-red winter colour of 'Bressingham Ruby' is part of its ornamental appeal.