Spring Pruning Guide: What to Cut Back and What to Leave

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As winter fades away and spring blossoms, gardeners often find themselves at a crossroads: to prune or not to prune. While many gardeners dread pruning, I wholeheartedly embrace it. If you’re in search of an easy-to-follow spring pruning guide, you’re in the right place!

In this article, I’ll outline which plants you should cut back this spring and which ones you should leave be. Let’s jump in!

What To Cut Back In Spring

1. Dead or Damaged Branches

Fruit Trees and Shrubs

If you own fruit trees or shrubs, such as hydrangeas that bloom on old wood, now’s the perfect time to make necessary cuts. Removing dead or damaged branches helps improve air circulation, preventing any potential fungal diseases.

Tip: After trimming, dispose of the dead wood far from your garden to avoid spreading diseases.

2. Summer-Flowering Shrubs (Prune Before New Growth)

Panicle Hydrangea

For summer-flowering shrubs like butterfly bush and panicle hydrangea, it’s vital to prune in early spring before new growth sets in. A light pruning from the top is usually sufficient.

Note: Don’t wait too long; pruning too late can inadvertently remove the new growth you want to preserve.

3. Perennials That Died Back In Winter

Hostas

With spring’s arrival, certain perennials like peonies, hostas, and daylilies might need some attention. Use small pruning shears to remove any dead parts that have surfaced.

Removing these dead perennials helps eliminate disease risks and lessens stress on your flourishing plants.

4. Overgrown Shrubs & Hedges

Boxwood

Overgrown shrubs and hedges can quickly create a disheveled garden appearance. In spring, trim back these unruly plants. Cut away long branches to restore a neat shape.

5. Roses

Hybrid Tea Roses

As with other perennials and shrubs, cutting back roses in spring helps remove dead or damaged wood, which encourages healthy growth. Use sharp pruning shears to eliminate weak stems, promoting a vibrant flowering season.

What NOT To Cut Back In Spring

1. Spring-Flowering Shrubs (Prune After They Bloom!)

Forsythia

Pruning spring-flowering shrubs while they’re blooming can damage their delicate flowers. Wait until after these plants, such as forsythia, lilac, and azaleas, have finished blooming to trim them safely.

2. Early-Blooming Bulbs

Daffodils

Be cautious with early-blooming bulbs like daffodils and tulips. Pruning them too soon can drain their energy reserves. Allow the foliage to fade naturally before trimming.

3. Ornamental Grasses

Maiden Grass

While the ideal time to trim ornamental grasses is late winter, some people may miss this window. If you must prune in spring, do so with care, avoiding any new shoots.

4. Trees That “Bleed” Sap If Pruned In Spring

Birch Trees

Certain trees, like maple, birch, elm, and walnut, can bleed sap if pruned in spring. This can stress the tree and make it more susceptible to disease. Prune these trees in late winter when they are dormant.

Conclusion

Spring pruning can feel intimidating, but it’s essential for maintaining the health and beauty of your garden. Pruning at the right time and in the right way can prevent irreversible harm to your plants.

Make sure your pruning shears are sharp, and stay informed about what to cut and what to leave alone. This approach will ensure a flourishing garden throughout the growing season.

Happy gardening! If you have any specific questions about your plants or pruning techniques, feel free to reach out for tailored advice!

This guide will serve you well as you embark on your spring pruning journey. Don’t hesitate to use this resource as a helpful reference for your gardening needs!

31 thoughts on “Spring Pruning Guide: What to Cut Back and What to Leave”

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