Did you know it is never too late to prune? Trees and shrubs can be pruned any time of year. But the key is in knowing how plants respond differently to pruning at different times of year. If you want certain results in certain seasons, you have to prune.
According to Steve Allen, CLT, Landscape Maintenance Account Manager, for more robust deciduous growth in spring, dormant pruning in winter is your answer. “Dormant pruning reduces the number of buds to share the food stored in the roots, so each bud will grow more vigorously.” For example, by pruning in the summer, you can slow down growth on an overgrown or neglected shrub.
Hermes Landscaping has compiled a few simple guidelines to help you prune your way to an amazing landscape.
January to March Young or weak-growing trees and shrubs, summer blooming shrubs such as roses, rose of sharon, crapemyrtle, and certain spiraeas.
April to May Spring flowering trees and shrubs such as azaleas, camellias, daphne, forsythia, lilacs, rhododendrons, cherries, plums, deciduous magnolias, and crabapples, after they are finished blooming.
June to August Overgrown or neglected deciduous flowering or fruit trees and shrubs, suckers and watersprouts, and faded flowers on summer blooming plants such as roses and spiraea.
September to October Only necessary pruning to prevent limb breakage during winter weather.
November to December Perennials and shrubs that die back over winter such as hydrangeas, and hibiscus.
All Year Dead or diseased wood should be pruned out immediately in any season. Sterilize pruning tools with bleach or disinfectant between every cut to prevent spreading the disease. Hermes Landscaping
Do you feel more confident about pruning your landscape plants now?