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Writer's pictureTimothy Jacobs
Jun 152 min read

Pruning Shrubs and Trees: Best Practices for Healthy Growth

Pruning is a vital aspect of garden maintenance that not only enhances the appearance of your plants but also promotes healthy growth and flowering. Proper pruning techniques can prevent diseases and improve the overall health of your trees and shrubs. At Lawn Harmony Landscaping, we understand the importance of correct pruning methods and are here to share some best practices to help you keep your garden looking its best.


Why Prune?


Health: Removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches helps prevent insect and decay organisms from entering the plant.

Shape: Regular pruning maintains the desired shape and appearance of your landscape plants.

Growth: By cutting back overgrown branches, you encourage the development of new, healthy growth.

Flowering and Fruiting: Pruning can enhance flowering in some species and improve the size and quality of fruits.


Best Practices for Pruning


1. Know When to Prune:

  • Deciduous Trees and Shrubs: Prune during dormancy in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. However, for spring-blooming shrubs, prune immediately after they flower.

  • Evergreens: Prune in late winter or early spring before growth begins, or in late summer to adjust shape.

2. Use the Right Tools:

  • Hand Pruners: For small branches less than ¾ inches in diameter.

  • Loppers: For branches ¾ to 1½ inches in diameter.

  • Pruning Saws: For larger branches over 1½ inches. Ensure that all tools are sharp and clean to make precise cuts and reduce the risk of spreading diseases.

3. Make Clean Cuts:

  • Cuts should be made at a 45-degree angle about ¼ inch above a bud that faces the outside of the plant. This angle prevents water from collecting on the cut surface and encourages proper healing.

4. Follow the "Rule of Thirds":

  • Never remove more than one-third of a tree or shrub’s foliage in one growing season. Over-pruning can stress the plant.

5. Thin, Don't Top:

  • Thinning involves removing entire branches to the trunk or main limb, which helps maintain the plant’s natural form. Avoid topping trees (cutting back the tops of trees), which can lead to weak growth and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.


Special Considerations


6. Pruning Young Plants:

  • Focus on establishing a good shape during the first few years. Remove crossing branches and those that grow inward toward the center of the plant.

7. Pruning Flowering Shrubs:

  • To maximize blooming, prune flowering shrubs right after they bloom. This strategy is essential for shrubs that bloom on old wood.

8. Dealing with Diseased Branches:

  • If you need to remove diseased areas, disinfect your pruning tools after each cut to prevent spreading the disease to healthy parts of the plant or other plants.


Contact Lawn Harmony Landscaping


If you require professional pruning services or further advice on caring for your garden’s trees and shrubs, contact Lawn Harmony Landscaping:



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Proper pruning is crucial for maintaining the health, appearance, and longevity of your trees and shrubs. By following these best practices, you can ensure that your garden remains beautiful and thrives throughout the year.



Pruning

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