Pruning and shaping your trees and shrubs is essential in maintaining their health and beauty. However, improper pruning techniques can cause irreversible damage to them. Pruning is the act of cutting off parts of a plant, while shaping involves the manipulation of a plant’s growth for aesthetic purposes. Here are some tips on how to properly prune and shape your trees and shrubs.
1. Identify the purpose of pruning
Before you start pruning, identify the purpose of pruning. Pruning can serve different purposes, including removing dead, diseased or damaged branches, removing suckers, removing branches that obstruct walkways or views, reducing the size of a shrub, and improving the overall shape of a tree or shrub.
2. Use the right tools
Using the right tools is crucial in pruning and shaping your trees and shrubs. Invest in quality pruning tools, including pruning saws, pruning shears, loppers, and hedge trimmers. Ensure that the tools are sharp and clean to prevent damaging the plant.
3. Prune at the right time
Pruning at the right time is essential to prevent stressing the plant. Different trees and shrubs have different pruning schedules. For instance, deciduous trees and shrubs should be pruned during the dormant season (late winter to early spring) before new growth begins. On the other hand, evergreen trees and shrubs can be pruned at any time of the year except during periods of active growth.
4. Prune with the right technique
Pruning should be done using the right technique to ensure that the plant heals properly. Cut at a 45-degree angle to prevent water from pooling on the cut end, which can cause decay. When removing large branches, use the three-cut technique. First, make a cut on the underside of the branch, about 12-18 inches from the trunk. Next, cut through the branch from the top, a few inches further out from the first cut. Finally, make a final cut just outside the branch collar.
5. Shape for aesthetic purposes
Shaping your trees and shrubs can improve their appearance and make them more appealing to the eye. However, shaping should be done gradually to avoid stressing the plant. A plant’s natural shape should be maintained, and only minor changes should be made. When shaping a shrub or hedge, use a level and a string to ensure that the top is even.
6. Don’t over-prune
Over-pruning can cause irreversible damage to your trees and shrubs. Avoid removing more than 25% of the plant’s foliage in a single pruning session. Pruning too much can weaken the plant, reduce its ability to produce food, and make it more susceptible to disease and pests.
In conclusion, pruning and shaping your trees and shrubs can improve their overall health and appearance. Use the right tools, prune at the right time, use the right technique, shape for aesthetic purposes, and avoid over-pruning. With proper care, your trees and shrubs will thrive and add beauty to your landscape.
