Many people think of pruning only in connection with a shrub or tree that has grown too big for the spot where it’s planted.  Pruning can also rejuvenate older shrubs, encourage flowers or fruiting, and increase the overall vigor of plants.  When you decide to prune, however, should be given some consideration.  Pruning in the wrong season can decrease flower or fruit production.  It can also be harmful to a plant’s recovery.

    The general rule is to remove no more than 1/3 of the plant’s total growth in a one-year period.  If a shrub or tree is severely overgrown it is sometimes better to prune it back over a two or three year period than all at once.  As with anything, there are always exceptions to the rules, so it is best to check with the professionals for specific questions.

  General How-To:

  Make you cuts at a slight angle about ¼ inch above a bud.  Never leave a long stub above the bud.  Make the cut leaving the bud pointing in the direction you want the new growth to grow.  Large cuts should be sealed with a light aerosol tree paint.  Heavy tars are no longer recommended.

  Tips on Specific Plants:

*Certain trees like maple, dogwood, birch, and elm bleed sap if cut in spring.  Although this generally causes no harm, late fall or early winter pruning is recommended.

*Needled evergreens should be pruned when the new growth is still soft to prevent browning at the tips. 

*Black raspberries bear fruit on old canes from the previous year.  To have a

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