To enlightened gardeners, why and when to prune properly is regarded as a fun and challenging activity. Summertime is typically the time of year when most gardeners gather their pruning tools and go outdoors to accomplish their annual plant trimming chores. To many, it is a task that is dreaded.
Normally, the people who dread the job are the ones who use one main tool, the hedge trimmer, and give every plant in their foundation planting a “haircut.” The end product of this practice is a yard full of meatballs, flying saucers, and upright soldiers. That is fine if that is what a person really wants, a topiary garden. But there are other ways to prune that create a more natural look that truly exhibits a plant’s natural growing style and beauty. Pruning naturally requires the use of hand pruners and a good, sharp saw. I prefer to use the Felco #2 hand pruner and an ARS folding saw. Branches are selectively cut to bring out the natural shape of each individual plant. Consult the internet or the library for articles
relating to natural pruning.
Why do we prune?
– Size reduction
– Removal of diseased and/or broken branches
– Removal of limbs that impede passage, visual blockage, or structural contact
– Increase of air flow within plants, thus reducing disease pressure
– Keep the overall design of the planting within concept
– Rejuvenation of an overgrown plant
– Maintain an artistic specimen that commands the main focal point of a garden or space
– Enhance fruit production
When do we prune?
– Fruit trees and crabapples are generally pruned when in a dormant state
– Formal hedges require routine trimming throughout the growing season
– Rejuvenation of plants should occur before new growth begins in the spring and definitely not in late summer
– Most other types of pruning are generally done during the growing season; stop pruning by mid to late August so that any new growth that may be formed will not be damaged by the first hard frost
So, instead of dreading a monumental task of conquering the outdoor jungle, rethink your approach to pruning. Use these tips on why and when to prune and you can spread out the work load by pruning on nice days in the winter and cooler summer mornings. Whether you are shearing a formal hedge or topiary, or pruning trees and shrubs in a natural way, your true artistry can come through with a great result. Instead of going to war in your yard, look at it as though you are painting a picture. Great pruning can bring great satisfaction. It will look wonderful also.