1. Spring-blooming shrubs:
* Prune immediately after flowering. This allows the shrub to put its energy into new growth and bud development for the following year.
* Examples: Azaleas, rhododendrons, lilacs, forsythia, weigela, spirea
2. Summer-blooming shrubs:
* Prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. This ensures that you are removing old wood and encouraging new growth that will bear flowers.
* Examples: Rose bushes, hydrangeas, butterfly bush, crape myrtle
3. Late-summer or fall-blooming shrubs:
* Prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. This allows for the maximum amount of new growth and flowers.
* Examples: Witch hazel, beautyberry, barberry, flowering quince
General Pruning Tips:
* Use sharp, clean pruning shears.
* Make clean cuts just above a bud or a set of leaves.
* Avoid pruning too deeply. Remove only dead, diseased, or crossing branches, and prune selectively for shape.
* Be aware of the shrub's specific pruning requirements. Some shrubs may need more frequent pruning than others.
Exceptions:
* Some shrubs bloom on old wood (last year's growth). These shrubs should be pruned after they bloom to avoid removing the flower buds.
* Deadheading (removing spent flowers) can encourage re-blooming. This is a good practice for some shrubs, but it is not necessary for all.
Always check the specific pruning instructions for your particular shrub variety.
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