How should I prepare my weigela shrub for winter by pruning it properly?

To prepare your weigela shrub for winter, prune it in late fall after it has finished blooming. Remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any crossing or crowded branches. Cut back about one-third of the oldest branches to promote new growth in the spring. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can reduce flowering. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the shrub to protect the roots from freezing temperatures.