When done at the right time, pruning strengthens the plant; done at the wrong time, it sacrifices that year's flowers or shoots. Spring is the most critical pruning window for most plants.

Which plant, when?

The general rule is simple: species that flower in summer are pruned in spring, and species that flower in spring are pruned after flowering ends.

  • Summer-flowering shrubs (e.g. roses, buddleia): in early spring, before buds wake
  • Spring-flowering shrubs (e.g. lilac, forsythia): right after flowering ends
  • Ornamental grasses: cut close to the ground before new growth starts
  • Fruit trees: late winter–early spring, during dormancy

The right technique

With a sharp, clean tool, cut at a slight angle just above the bud. Dead, diseased and crossing branches are removed first; then the plant is shaped so air and light can enter.

What to avoid

Over-pruning weakens and stresses the plant. Not removing more than a third of the total green mass at once is a safe limit for most species.