Pruning & Plant Care
When, how, and why to prune trees, shrubs, and perennials. Proper cuts, timing, and tools.
“Pruning is plant surgery. Bad pruning is plant butchery. The difference is knowing where to cut and owning sharp shears.”
What you'll learn
Pruning timing: spring-blooming shrubs (prune after flowering), summer-blooming shrubs (prune in late winter/early spring), evergreens (prune in early spring), fruit trees (late winter while dormant). The right timing is the difference between abundant blooms and no flowers at all.
The three-cut method for large branches: first cut 1/3 through underside (prevents bark tear), second cut 2-3 inches out removes the branch weight, third cut at the branch collar. Never cut flush to the trunk - leave the branch collar intact for proper healing.