Pruning Pointers for Trees and Shrubs

Pruning trees and shrubs may be the most feared act in gardening. Using sharp metal objects to cut away life goes against our natural inclinations. Remember that Nature is the Great Pruner. For example, when trees grow too close together, branches die as they compete for sunlight and airflow. Pruning is a vital part of gardening. Proper pruning will control growth while keeping the plant looking natural. There are some basic reasons why we prune.

To Thin:

Remove to improve. Thinning is about cutting out all dead, diseased, and injured parts to let in more air and light. Most important, thinning prevents confusion of a plant's structural line and enhances its health.

To Reduce:

Our job is to prevent certain shrubs and trees from outgrowing their position in a yard. Judicious reducing helps plants develop into sound structures without over-stressing their limbs. Also, maximum flowering and bountiful fruit are only possible by pruning.

To Rejuvenate:

It sounds harsh, but severe pruning is necessary to restore older trees and shrubs to better health. Most plants are amazingly forgiving with severe pruning. Think twice, cut once, and watch carefully.

When to Prune:

-Prune spring blooming shrubs after they bloom. They bloom on old growth.
-Prune roses in late spring. When the forsythias bloom it is the perfect time to prune roses.
-Prune summer blooming shrubs in the early spring. They bloom on new growth.

Here are some pruning pointers for late winter and early spring. Plants are dormant, but the coldest part of winter has passed, lowering the chance of cold damage near pruning cuts.

Prune butterfly bush severely. These plants bloom only on new shoots. Stimulate new growth by lopping the whole plant to within a few inches of the ground.

Potentillia can be pruned to a small round shrub. This will shape them, remove spent blooms, and keep the plant uniform and neat.

On apple and other fruit trees, cut water sprouts right to their bases. These vigorous, upright shoots soak up the plant's energy and bear few or no flowers or fruits. Remove weak twigs.

Summer blooming spirea will look and bloom better if they are sheared back in the spring. Remove all dead branches and one-third of the plant. The spring blooming varieties should be pruned in the early summer, after they bloom.

Visit the Garden Solution Center at Pinehurst for all your gardening needs.