Invigorate trees and shrubs with pruning, a cornerstone of proper tree and shrub care. Proper pruning keeps trees and shrubs looking good, maintains plant health and wards off pests and diseases by eliminating unhealthy branches.
Pruning is essential for healthy trees and shrubs, but it's important to take time to do it the right way. An improper pruning cut can rip the bark or injure the trunk of the plants. Proper care supports a long and strong life for your garden and landscape investment.
When to Prune
While maintenance pruning of most shrubs can be done any time, some species best respond to pruning at specific times of the year. For most trees and shrubs, late winter or early spring is the best time. After that, early to mid-summer, and third-best is early to mid-fall. After that window of time, the threat of frost means postponing pruning tasks until spring is near. Remember that you can always trim back dying or diseased branches in any season.
Tools for Pruning
The right tools make pruning easier and help you do a good job. Use pruning shears for most jobs for cuts up to 3/4-inch in diameter. Lopping shears, with their long handles, provide leverage and cut branches up to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Hand and pole saws cut branches up to 4 inches in diameter. Use small chain saws on larger branches. It's important to keep tools well-maintained and sharp. Learn more about caring for garden tools.
Pruning Cuts
All cuts should be made on the branch side of the stem collar, which grows out from the stem at the base of the branch. This protects the stem and other branches that might be growing. It also allows the tree to heal more effectively after pruning.
For shrubs, find a place on the branch about a 1/2 inch above a bud facing out and cut at an angle with the high point facing up.
For shrubs with buds in pairs, also known as opposites, make the cut a half-inch above the buds and straight across.
When pruning, it can difficult to gauge how much to prune. A good rule of thumb when pruning shrubs (same for perennials and annuals, too) is to take no more than a third of the length of the plant.
Three-Cut Method
To prevent tearing bark during a cut, use the three-cut method: First, make a small wedge-shaped cut under the branch on the branch side of the stem collar. Next, cut off the branch 6 to 12 inches from this wedge, leaving a stub end. Finally, cut parallel to and just on the branch side of the stem collar as close to the tree’s trunk as possible.
Proper pruning requires skill. Be sure to wear protective clothing and safety goggles. For any job that requires you to lift a chainsaw over your head, it’s safest to call a certified arborist.
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