Steps to Successful Pruning

1. Study the plant to decide what its pruning needs are. Information on the correct time to prune each plant is available to you through your local extension service. Decide how the plant grows and how you can maintain its natural form.
   
   
2. Make all cuts flush above a bud or on adjoining branches. Always cut above a bud that is pointing in the direction you wish that new branch to grow. The proper pruning cut will develop the shrub's proper shape, reduce disease problems and allow for stronger branch development.
   
   
3. Remove all dead or damaged branches first. Next remove (thin out) or cut back branches that detract from the tree's overall shape. These include branches that are weak or may cause future problems by competing for light or growing into other branches.
   
   
4. Treat all wounds larger than a dime with a good tree wound dressing.
   
   

When To Prune

• Major pruning on fruit trees should be done while the plant is dormant. Minor pruning on fruit trees can be done anytime.
  
  
• Pruning most leafy shrubs should follow a renovation program. Remove onefourth to one-fifth of the oldest, largest canes each year. If this is done the oldest cane in the shrub will the three to four years old. Keep only the strongest new canes for replacement and remove the weakest canes.
  
  
• Shrubs like forsythia, flowering quince and pussy willow that bloom early in the spring should be runed immediately after they bloom. Shrubs such as rose of Sharon and hydrangea that bloom later in the season should be pruned while they are dormant.
  
  
• Most plants used in sheared hedges can be pruned throughout the growing season.
  
  
• Some trees such as birch, maple, walnut, dogwood and elm should not be pruned in late winter or early spring when sap is moving, as they may "bleed" profusely. These trees should be pruned when they are in full leaf.
  
  
• Annual and perennial flowers will also become more bushy and produce more flowers if new growth is pinched back. This will create a fuller plant. Pinching chrysanthemums should be discontinued after July 4.
  
  
• Hybrid tea roses should be pruned back to 9"-12" in the spring to a bud pointing to the outside of the bush. Make all cuts 1/4" above the bud or branch to give strength and support to the new growth.
  
  
• Remove old canes of climbing roses immediately after they bloom. Allow new canes to develop for next year's bloom.

Related Products: Lawn and Garden > Garden Tools > Pruning & Trimming

DISCLAIMER: Check your state and local codes before starting any project. Follow all safety precautions. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and safety of the information in this document. Neither NRHA, any contributor nor Aubuchon Hardware can be held responsible for damages or injuries resulting from the use of the information in this document.

National Retail Hardware Association

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