Pruning Shrubs

The first step in properly pruning shrubs is identifying the particular shrub before you pick up any pruning tools.

Since not all shrubs are pruned at the same time, or in the same way, this knowledge is invaluable to achieving satisfying results.

Most of the discontent home gardeners feel about shrubs is due to improper pruning. This is usually more about when they prune than how they prune the shrub.

We see a shrub growing out of control and we pull out the shears. However, this can lead to disaster.

For some shrubs, pruning before they flower encourages stronger stems and bigger blooms. For others, pruning at this time kills off buds that are already forming.

When this happens, we get few, if any, flowers, and no berries for later in the season. This usually leads to perfectly healthy shrubs being ripped out of the landscape to the dismay and frustration of gardeners.

Where to Begin

Once you have identified the type of shrub you have, the proper time to prune and any specific pruning instructions for the variety, there are a few things to consider before starting.

Using the proper tools is crucial to successfully pruning shrubs to prevent damage to the branches. Tools should be sharp and clean to prevent introduction or spread of disease.

Disinfect the blades with one part bleach to nine parts water or use wood alcohol to clean tools. Dip the blades in the disinfectant before you start pruning.

Disinfect the blades between each cut when pruning obviously diseased shrubs to prevent spreading disease to healthy branches and other shrubs.

Work slowly and carefully, using hand-held or lopping shears that are comfortable to grip.

Tips for Proper Pruning

Remove branches that are dead, do not look healthy, or are growing erratically. Prune any branches that tangle or cross other branches to provide better air circulation through the shrub. Once you eliminate dead, unhealthy and out of place branches, look at the shrub. Consider what your ultimate goals for the size and shape are.

To create a taller shrub, cut where a bud is pointing upward. To create a more compact shrub, cut where the bud points downward. Never cut any branch flush to the trunk of the shrub, which can lead to decay.

When to Prune

Light pruning to remove dead or problem branches can be done any time of the year.

For more severe pruning, check the variety of plant for specific details, but this is usually done in late winter to early spring.

Late summer pruning is usually avoided to prevent new growth spurts that may not have time to mature before winter sets in.

Plants are more susceptible to cold after they have been pruned. If late spring frosts are possible, avoid heavy pruning for a while.

Flowering plants need to be pruned at specific times based on when they flower. Spring-bloomers generally form their buds during the previous summer and fall. Pruning before they bloom again will remove these buds.

Summer-bloomers produce flowers during the current growing season and should be pruned before new growth begins, usually in spring.

There are exceptions to the rule, however, and knowing the specifics of your shrub will eliminate any questions.

By identifying shrubs and understanding their growth cycle, properly pruning shrubs can generate lush, healthy growth and prolific flowering.