Why are my Red Robin branches dropping down thus being unable to hold their own weight?

Question

The long branches on some of my Red Robins are dropping downward like they are struggling to hold the own branch weight, why is this?

The current size of my Red robins are around 1 metre tall and are doing okay in terms of plant health apart from some of the lengthy branches are failing to support their own weight.

I am having to use a plant cane to support it and a garden plant tie to hold it up.

I know we have had heavy rain recently where I am, which would add weight to the branches, but in dry weather, some of the branches are doing the same thing even when it is dry!

I am just really concerned for when snow comes because if it is struggling to hold it’s own weight in rain, in snow it could bend the branch to the ground is what I am thinking.

Could you please advise me on what to do or just tell me if this normal.

The long branches that are going upwards are very narrow.

Answer 1

This is quite common, and no need for concern. Pruning is usually the best option. You will want to do this at the correct time, though. This article will give you a detailed explanation of how and when to prune these: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/photinia/pruning-photinia-shrubs.htm