The best time to prune shrubs and bushes depends on the type of plant and climate zone you live in. It only takes a few simple tools and a little bit of time and you will be able to enjoy your shrubs and bushes for years to come. Shrubs and bushes need to be pruned at least once a year. See also winterize sprinkler system.

Tools and Materials

• Pruning shears
• Gardening gloves

Instructions on how to Prune Shrubs and Bushes

Tip: To tell if a branch is dead, scrape it with the edge of your pruning shears. If the wood underneath is green or white, it is healthy. If it is brown or black, then the tree is dead.

1. Choose a sharp set of shears. A dull set of blades can literally crush the wood along the cut, which will cause damage that could work its way back to the center of the plant. A sharp pair of shears will not only make the task easier, but it will help promote new growth on the shrub.
2. To determine the right time of year to prune your shrubs, you will need to know what type of plant you have and what specific climate zone you live in. Many shrubs that grow fast will need to be pruned in the early spring to allow for new growth to start and for blooming to develop in the warmer weather. However, some shrubs need to be pruned in the late fall to reduce the amount of leaves that will be damaged by frost.
3. Protect your hands with strong gardening gloves. The sharp spears can cause sharp branches and can cut you knuckles when you remove the dead branches.
4. Prune shrubs by cutting at an angle away from the orientation of the buds on the branches. Cut 6 inches of growth away from a mature shrub. Cut less for plants that are still in their second season or less.
5. You do not want to prune too much and you do not want to remove too much of the healthy growth. The leaves of newer branches are lighter in color, depending on the shrub, of course. You want to promote new growth to fill out the empty spaces in your shrubs. Remember that it takes a shrub at least two seasons before it can rebound from overly aggressive pruning. Shape how ever you want it to look.

Take the time to prune your bushes and shrubs, and you will be sure to enjoy them for years to come. They are an excellent investment and asset to your home when you care for them properly.

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