Shrubs - Mahonia
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  (December) Can I prune Mahonia bushes? (I believe they are also called Oregon grape.) Where and how much? The bushes were planted under pines about six years ago and have gotten very "leggy." If I cut off the tops, will they bush out?

  Mahonia, or Oregon Grape Holly, are cane producing plants, and are best pruned by removing some of the older canes very close to the soil line. I would wait and prune in the spring after they finish blooming this winter. You can stagger the height of some of the remaining canes if you want, but to encourage new canes you need to remove some of the old ones, down low.

  I recently visited relatives in Charlotte, North Carolina and while helping with yard chores, acquired a large cutting off of a plant they called, "Leatherleaf Mahonia". I would like to know if it will survive in North Central Arkansas and if it will start from a cutting. Right now, it is in water in my garage and looks like it is doing very good. It is a very nice looking plant and I would like to plant it here if possible. If you have any other info. on this plant, such as light, soil and water preferences, please include it in your answer.

  Leatherleaf Mahonia does well statewide. It is a great plant for shade or partial shade. The plant blooms in January or February, and then sets large clusters of grape-like fruit. Another common name is Oregon grape holly. It should root provided your cutting isn't too large. If you brought back a large branch, try dividing the cutting into sections 6 to 8 inches in length. use a rooting hormone to encourage rooting. Put them in soil, not water, and be patient. If it doesn't work, most nurseries carry this plant.

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