Just like a lawn, shrubs should be routinely pruned to remain presentable and healthy. This process involves removing all dead branches and leaves in such a way that promotes new growth, as well as prevents pests and disease. In order to achieve optimal results, here are a few shrub-pruning do’s and don’ts to follow the next time you take on this landscaping task.  

Do:

Open up the shrub.

Ideally, you should aim to trim no more than one-third of the shrub. To get the most balance from this ratio, aim to make the center of the bush more accessible to light. The best way to open the plant up is to evenly trim the side branches that connect to the main stem. If there are several stems, prune the branches from the bottom edge.  

Time it right.

Flowering shrubs should be pruned soon after they bloom to ensure proper flower growth in the next year. Most will bloom in spring, but some may not do so until summer. Non-flowering shrubs, however, are best trimmed in winter. Pruning in the fall should be avoided, as this timing could interrupt the plant’s hibernation and budding processes.

Keep shears sharp.

Standard pruning shears should be fine for cutting off branches that are ¾” thick or smaller. However, if this landscaping tool isn’t sharp enough, it may tear or splinter the remaining branch. Since this damage can prevent healthy growth and may promote disease, it’s best to regularly sharpen your equipment.

Don’t:

Wait to remove dead or diseased branches.

While general pruning should take place in winter, spring, or summer, you shouldn’t wait to trim away branches that are dead or diseased. Keeping these limbs around may only spread disease or invite pests.

Leave behind too much branch.

Don’t try to keep too much of the branch you’re trimming. For the best results, trim so that no more than a quarter-inch of the branch extends from the main system. If the appendage is longer, it may be vulnerable to insect and plant disease risks.

Trim flat across the top.  

Flat topiaries may seem appealing, but this look should be left to the professionals. Cutting directly off the top in a straight line can impact future growth, causing the shrub to develop unruly vertical branches.

 

Pruning may be an important part of yard care, but it doesn’t have to be something you tackle all on your own. If you’re looking to keep your plants in exceptional shape, look to Team Green Inc. for top-of-the-line landscaping services in Elko, NV. From trimming trees and shrubs to providing routine lawn maintenance, these specialists will use professional tools and techniques to keep all your plants healthy and beautiful. To learn more about their capabilities—including hardscaping and irrigation—visit this landscape company online. For estimates or service requests, call (775) 777-3338.