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Pruning and deadheading often confuses raw gardener since there ’s no one - size - fits - all method acting or timing . However , understanding a few key rule can make it easy to make up one’s mind when to cut or permit things be .
If you have various size of it arm to remove , be sure to usethe ripe tools for the job .
Always have a reason to prune. Plants don’t need haircuts for the fun of it.
Pruning Principles 101
Contents
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Wait. Should You Prune?
3 Reasons to Prune
Always clip for a specific reason , not because you think you should do it .
When I set out gardening , I had the impression that pruning was simply a necessary annual chore .
It was only when I read up on it that I realized that it should always be done for a specific reason . It ’s not just a unremarkable haircut .
Theone case of pruning that has no set timetableis the remotion ofdead , damaged , diseasedorcrossedbranches .
These are either lifeless or may cause further damage to the plant if they are leave alone in place , so get free of them any time usinganvil pruning hook , pruner , or a tree saw for remotion .
All other pruning has best times of year , and this depends on the coinage and its budding cycle .
In general , the precept is , prune when the plant is asleep ( dormant ) and does not have buds .
Trees and Shrubs
Trimming Back Garden Perennials
Best Tool for Pruning
Bypass prunersare the good tool for pruning belittled , hold up branches on tree diagram , bush , and vine . These provide a prissy , clear track without damaging any plant tissue paper .
But , thicker branch necessitate big loppers to ensure you get good , sporty excision .
Never squeeze humble pruners on thicker branch . Instead , utilise this guide to beak the good size of it pruning tool for the job .
Be sure to clean your peter before habit and between plant life . Some nurseryman userubbing alcoholand / or heat the vane briefly with a lighter .
Related : Garden Tool Guide : How to Choose the Right Pruners & Loppers
How Much Pruning is Too Much?
Unless the works fabric is dead , damaged , or morbid , the general rule is to never remove more thanone thirdof the entire offset or plant .
I save old branches and cuttings for this seclusion wall , allowing them to decompose and return to the earth . The birds get it on this .
Where to Cut
Research before you abbreviate ! Where you cut depends on what you are seek to accomplish . This could be removal of crossing branches ( remove them at the base at the branch collar ) or encouraging sidelong growth ( remove the terminal buds ) .
The possibilities are too legion to list here . Look up your specific plant and follow operating instructions you trust . And , the more you seem over your plants , the better you will get at recognizing what should be trimmed and why .
As a general rule , the best buds to keep are those face outward , so newfangled growth will also originate outward instead of inward , congesting gentle wind catamenia and visible radiation .
Work in Sections
If you are removing heavier branches , work in sections , take outer pieces first . This will make the task safe and avoid tearing the plant when the concluding cut is made .
Seasonal Pruning and Deadheading Calendar
1Winter (while plants are dormant)
Remove utter , diseased or damaged limb , suckers , overlapping or leggy branches .
- If these are invasive species in your neighborhood , deal dispatch them entirely .
touch on : What to Prune in Winter
2Early Spring (some new growth may be starting to appear)
This is my main garden clean up time for the year .
3Summer
Related : How to Deadhead prime
4Late Summer / Early Fall (after flowering, before new buds form)
Related : What to Prune in Fall and What Should Wait
Resources
Summary
Watch Pruning Tips
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When To Prune & Deadhead
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