Shrubs help reduce the risk of erosion around your property and can be an attractive way of adding privacy to your yard. However, just like any other plant, they need care to thrive. This includes following a regular pruning schedule. Overgrown shrubs are not only unsightly, but they can also lead to a variety of costly problems on your property. The key to pruning success is making sure you’re using the correct techniques and landscaping supplies. Here are a few tips for keeping your plants well-groomed and healthy.

Do:

Invest in the right tools.

You need tools that are comfortable to handle and will make sharp, clean cuts. Generally, different types of equipment are used depending on the plant that’s being pruned. For example, hand pruners and loppers are great for making precision cuts on deciduous and rose shrubs, while hedge shears are useful for shaping evergreen shrubs. As such, invest in an assortment of products to ensure you have the right tools on hand.

Prune during the right season.

Pruning should take place at different times throughout the year based on when a plant blooms. Prune shrubs that bloom in early spring, such as dogwoods, and rhododendrons, right after they’re done flowering. Shrubs that bloom in summer or fall, like hydrangea and bush honeysuckle, should be pruned in winter or spring before the ground gets too warm. 

Pruning encourages new growth, so you never want to do it in fall right before plants go into hibernation. Not paying attention to these guidelines can inhibit growth and leave shrubs vulnerable to insect infestations and disease.

Don’t:

Cut too much.

While pruning is essential, it places shrubs under stress. Over-pruning is an error that can turn a healthy shrub into one that loses its ability to bloom and fight off disease and fungus. The general rule of thumb is to never trim more than one-third of the plant at one time. This will ensure there’s plenty of foliage left to give the shrub nourishment.

Let them become overgrown.

It’s common for homeowners to wait until their shrubs have become a bit wild to think about pruning. However, it’s best to prune on a more frequent schedule so you don’t have as much to trim off each time. Therefore, trim plants monthly during their pruning season. Try to trim branches at a 45-degree angle to increase the plant’s ability to absorb water and regrow.

If you’re serious about maintaining a beautiful property, turn to Cabot Outdoors in Lonoke County, AR, for high-quality landscaping supplies. They carry a large selection of tools and equipment, ensuring homeowners have access to everything they need to achieve maximum curb appeal. The locally-owned store is proud to offer customers industry-leading products and personalized shopping assistance. Call (501) 843-7956 to ask about current inventory on landscaping supplies, or visit their website to place an order.