Pruning by
Landscape Concepts
Deciduous
trees and shrubs can be pruned any time during the
year, however, it is easier to evaluate the branching
structure during the winter months when the plants are
dormant. Flowering trees and shrubs should be
pruned immediately after flowering.
Evergreen
trees and shrubs can be pruned from early spring
through July. Pruning later in the season may
result in new growth that is easily burned by early
frosts.
Ornamental
grasses should be cut to 2"-6" above ground
when new growth begins to emerge in late March/early
April. Clumps can be reduced in height by half
during the winter to improve appearance. Always
leave some foliage to protect the roots until early
spring.
Deciduous
perennial flowers can be cut to the ground after the
first frost. New growth will emerge in the
spring. Evergreen perennials should be pruned
after they have completed flowering.
Many
perennial flowers will benefit by removing dead
flowers before they set seed. By inhibiting seed
production, plants will often produce a second flush
of flowers later in the season. With some
species, this technique will encourage continuous
blooming.
While
many perennial flowers can remain undisturbed for
years, some varieties need to be divided periodically
(every 2 to 5 years). Overcrowded clumps or
reduced blooms are signs that it is time to divide.
|
