How do I prune a Wisteria (vine?) that has been neglected for 20 years?

Question

There is what I was told is a Wisteria on the old homestead we recently purchased. It’s in the middle of the side yard and has spread to a massive size. I’d guess it’s roughly 30 ft or more across. The majority of the branches are basically spread out at ground level and are very very thick. There are upward shoots within, but the bulk lies on the ground. How do I begin to bring this back to a manageable size? When should I do this? I don’t want to kill the plant, but I also can’t handle it in its current shape and size. It’s swallowing most of that yard!
Any assistance is greatly appreciated. I’ll have more questions as the Belgian lady who lived there years ago was quite the gardening enthusiast. And I have a LOT to learn.

Answer 1

Wisteria: you either love it or you hate it. The blossoms smell divine but the plant is a monster. To keep it in check and to encourage flowering, it should be pruned twice a year. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P0qDeGhEjLY ) Pruning is discussed in this article: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/wisteria/pruning-wisteria.htm
General care information is in this article: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/wisteria/growing-wisteria-proper-wisteria-vine-care.htm