[Sive]

I have planted three Pyracantha Coccinea "Red Column" against the side wall of a garage ( facing west, loads of light, can be quite windy here)....this is their second summer. They are looking very healthy and have made very good growth, but there were no flowers (and therefore no berries) last year and I have suddenly realised that pyracanthas are blooming in other gardens and once again I see no sign of flower buds on mine.
Does anyone have any idea why this should be?
I have done very limited pruning....just the odd twig that is sticking out too far....as I want to clothe the wall and keep the growth tight against it. And the soil is basically clay with lots of organic matter added.
I'd be grateful for any suggestions.

[michael brenock]

If there is a lot of vigorous growth it indicates too much Nitrogen. The nitrogen Potassium ratio is worng. Increase the Potassium and Phosphate levels and reduce or omit all nitrogen. When you say lots of organic matter added then I presume it is rich in nitrogen. Add in some sandy soil or clay with the organics. Also remember that a pruned tree takes longer to flower and fruit than an unpruned one. Less pruning then until it settles down to flowering.
michael brenock horticultural advisor (retired)

[Sive]

Thank you Michael, I'll take that all on board.....I assume I can forget about getting flowers this year then?
Should I nevertheless use some appropriate fertiliser anyway, to encourage flowering next year?

[michael brenock]

you could apply fertiliser now that will help the shrub to form and develop flower buds.
michael brenock

[Sive]

Thank you, michael, I definitely will.