Here are some tips on pruning shrubs and trees ¹ ² ³ ⁴ ⁵:
*Pruning Calendar:*
- Prune your trees or shrubs during their dormant season (winter or early spring) to minimize stress and prevent disease.
- Prune flowering trees and shrubs immediately after they finish blooming.
*Pruning Young Shrubs and Trees:*
- Prune young shrubs and trees to encourage good branch structure.
- Prune deciduous shrubs when planting to thin out branches, promote good spacing, and remove broken, diseased, crossing, or circling roots.
*Pruning Tools:*
- Use sharp and clean hand pruners, loppers, or a pruning saw, depending on the branch size.
- Consider using a pole pruner for hard-to-reach branches.
*Pruning Techniques:*
- Cut branches at the branch collar (where the branch connects to the trunk or a larger branch).
- Cut at a 45-degree angle, and do not leave stubs.
- Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches.
- Thin out branches to allow air and light to reach the center of the plant.
- Prune to maintain or achieve a desired shape.
*Additional Tips:*
- Prune shrubs and trees regularly to maintain their health and appearance.
- Consider hiring a professional for large or complex pruning jobs.
- Do not prune during extreme weather conditions.
- Disinfect your pruning tools between cuts with rubbing alcohol or a bleach solution.
Remember to research specific pruning instructions for your particular tree or shrub species, as some may have unique requirements.
