Pruning Shrubs

Question

I have shrubs across the front of my home. Not sure the name (may be weigela), but the bottom is hearty and low to the ground with shoots of woody stems growing up from the centers. I want them to be tall like the shoots, but they don’t appear very healthy. The bottom looks better. I plan on fertilizing them but would like to prune before spring kicks in. Any advice? I live in North Carolina.

Answer 1

It appears that you have a variegated weigela. This article will help you with pruning:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/weigela/pruning-weigela.htm

To make it taller but fuller, simply trim the top only lightly.