I would prune it as it ends flowering; that is when it will be pushing new growth.

I would use same timing, only I would only cut one back to keep it flat on a wall.

Gord, do you have an evergreen or deciduous ceanothus?

You can shape the evergreen types after flowering, not before or you lose this years flowers.

Prune deciduous types as leaves begin to appear in Spring, and these do need regular pruning or become weak with poor flowering.

Thanks to all of you! I won't prune until after it blooms, as it is evergreen. I really appreciate the prompt advice, as I've never grown ceanothus before!

-Gord

SW Washington People,
I moved to Vancouver, WA last year. Do you belong to The NPSV Native PLants Society Vancouver Chapter. Do you belong any to any Garden club. I want to join some & volunteer at Naturally Beautiful Backyards, Invironmental Information Coop, & BushPrairie Master Gardeners extension.

Romerofinley@yahoo.com AL_compost

Not exactly a pruning question but here goes: My California Lilac is in well drained soil and situated in full sun and had been thriving. It went brown this winter and died and I can only assume it was because of the extended cold snaps we had. Now I am reticent to buy another and invest in the time it will take to mature. How hardy are these plants meant to be? If I do replant, what should I do to protect it in the event of another prolonged cold winter?