Trimming back the trees and bushes in your yard is a simple yet essential part of lawn maintenance. Yearly pruning leads to healthier plants, more plentiful flowering and fruiting, and a landscape that will be the envy of the neighborhood. But what are the most effective ways to carry out this essential task? Here are three tips to set you on the right track.

How to Trim Trees & Shrubs

1. Pick the Right Time

While you should prune any dead or diseased branches as soon as you notice them, healthy trees and shrubs only need attention at certain times of the year. Specific species may require special pruning schedules, but there are a couple of general rules to keep you safe. Spring flowering shrubs should be cut back just after they bloom. It may seem counterintuitive, but pruning in any other season can result in stunted growth the next year. Trim summer and fall blooms at the end of spring before the growing season begins. Reserve winter lawn maintenance for any branches that are broken or unhealthy.

2. Cut Correctly

When pruning branches, make sure your tools are sharp and in good condition for cutting before beginning the process. When taking off branches, cut close to the tree where the branch begins to keep stubs at a minimum and encourage healthy growth. Cut at a 45-degree angle or less to lessen the surface area and speed up healing. If you are pruning near a fresh bud, give it more space so it can blossom correctly.

3. Don’t Prune Too Much

The maximum amount to cut back for trees and shrubs is 20%. If you are looking to prune for maximum growth, the full 20% is good to trim back. If you’re working with a plant that produces flowers or fruit, trim a little bit less. If the foliage is weak, vigorous pruning can help it regain strength in shorter branches.

When you need assistance with your pruning efforts in the Batavia, NY, area, Scalia’s Landscape is the team to call. With 35 years of experience in lawn maintenance, they know how to trim trees and shrubs in a way that allows them to thrive. Call them at (585) 343-3106 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about the landscape design services they offer.