By Valeriew
United Kingdom 
The frost has got to our extremely large Lavatera and it does not look as though it will survive. We have had it about 5 years. Should we prune it back to 12 inches to give it a try or just replace with new. Valerie W
27 Mar, 2012
Answers
Yes, prune it back - should be pruned back severely every year end of March or early April, in much the same way as Buddleia davidii. Keep a close watch though - I've often found, once the shrub has died (they're not long lived plants), one or two seedlings pop up nearby.
27 Mar, 2012
Try the scratch test with your fingernail on a low branch. If there is green showing, then it is alive. You can certainly prune it down as well, if it has survived, when you're sure all danger of frost os over.
27 Mar, 2012