- The potentilla blooms during the summertime. The flowers are most commonly yellow, although some cultivars featuring white flowers have been developed. Many varieties continue to bloom all through the summer until the first frost of the fall. The flowers form on the current year's growth.
- Prune in the late winter or early spring before the tree breaks from dormancy. This allows the removal of old wood without disturbing the new season's growth where flowers will form and bloom. This chore is commonly done between February and April, depending on local weather conditions and snow depths that may cover the low shrub.
- Avoid pruning potentilla after the shrub breaks dormancy in the spring. A high percentage of the plant's energy is involved in forming leaves and beginning growth. Pruning at this time stresses the tree. Pruning trees while the leaves are falling in the fall can pose a similar problem.
- Potentilla plants are often used for hedges and accent plantings along the foundation of buildings. The shrub normally grows at uneven rates, resulting in some branches extending beyond the majority of the foliage of the bush. This results in a ragged-looking appearance. Pruning the shrub keeps a uniform and compact shape while allowing room for additional new growth, which results in more flowers.