In the last post we talked about the general tips to keep in mind when pruning. Today we’ll go over broad category guides. Be sure to let us know if you have any questions on pruning we haven’t covered!
Pruning on a plant encourages new growth as well as help maintain a certain size of plant. It can reduce the risk of disease and insect damage. Knowing what your are pruning will help with knowing how and when to prune. You can reduce the spread of diseases and insect infestations by pruning during different times of the year.
Trees – Prune your trees either during dormancy or after the new spring growth has “hardened off”. Dormant pruning allows you to see the structure of the tree (crossing branches, branches too close together, etc…). If you prune over the winter, you may see the tree “bleed” in spring from the open wound, which is normal. If you have spring flowering trees, if you wait to prune in the summer, you may prune off the tree’s fruit. Wait to prune birch, locust and aspen until July.
Shrubs – Base your timing on how the plants flower and the season. Avoid pruning during the active growing season of the spring and in the fall. Shrubs that bloom on old wood (some lilacs & hydrangea) should be pruned within 30-days of seeing dead blooms. Shrubs like spirea and roses can be pruned throughout the growing season, which in some, will encourage a second round of blooms.
Evergreens – When planting evergreen trees, locate them in the landscape so they would require only maintenance pruning (removing diseased or crossing branches and multiple leader issues). Shrubby evergreens can be pruned much like shrubs, heading, thinning and shaping.
Perennials – Iris and peonies are typically cut back in the late fall to prevent overwintering insects and diseases. Perennials will have a prettier shape when the spent bloom stems are cut all the way down to the base of the plant. This can help conserve energy to the foliage and maintain a healthier plants.
Subscribe to our blog to catch the next post on landscape pruning!
Nebraska Nursery & Color Gardens
Unique Landscape, Home Grown Roots