Thanks a bunch, Rosie, Merrill & Lynne, for all the information!
It is greatly appreciated!
I was especially glad to hear from Merrill because we are almost like neighbors in this vast universe of the Garden Forum and I know he has to deal with the exact same weather as I do!
Added bonus to pruning...you can root some of the softwood cuttings for more plants.
Rosie, this would be a special bonus, IF, I had enough room to plant more, but I don't!
Merrill, I'm really looking forward to seeing the pictures you post of your Butterfly Bush!