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How and when should I prune my shrubs? |
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 Most plants need regular pruning after the first few years to insure the
correct shape and natural growth habit for the area they are in. Pruning is also
important to maintain the health of the plant. It removes diseased and damaged
branching, helps air circulate while letting sunlight in, and stops structural
problems in future plant growth. Some plants will require hand pruning, while
some will tolerate power shears, each providing a slightly different effect on
your overall landscape. Plants in a formal setting are usually pruned with power
shears. For a natural look, pruning with hand clippers is most effective, but
more time consuming.
Shrubs should be pruned in July or August after their new growth has hardened
off. Under ideal circumstances, flowering shrubs should be pruned within 6 weeks
of bud drop. If while pruning you see next season's flower buds developing, you
should only selectively prune as to not shear away the flowers or destroy the
growth habit of the plant.
We all have seen many beautiful landscapes become an eye sore simply from the
lack of regular pruning. When plants become overgrown, they impede your
walkways, block your windows, and sometimes hide your home. Yearly pruning
maintains the beauty of your property, protecting your landscape investment.
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