Q.Abutilon pruning
Recently, the leaves and flowers in my Abutilon began shriveling up. It did freeze here earlier this winter, but not for a month or so. With the heavy rains it was flooded for a couple days, or more. Should I just cut it back and see what happens or wait to see if there’s any new growth? It’s several years old and about 6 feet tall.
It is best to avoid pruning until later in spring/summer and to wait and see if the plant produces new growth. Many cold-damaged plants will recover on their own. After it puts out new growth, you can see if there are any dead areas and prune them out.
You might also want to check whether the drainage around the Abutilon can be improved, since flooding can also damage plants. Here is more information on soil drainage:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/yard-drainage-problems.htm
http://goodlifegarden.ucdavis.edu/blog/2011/08/how-to-improve-your-soil-drainage/
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/making-sure-soil-drains-well.htm
