Pruning in spring do's and dont's

If you want to enjoy a cosy and colourful garden in spring and summer, you need to make some time during spring. After all, a beautiful field of flowers, a full apple tree and a healthy hedge don't just happen. Spring pruning is one of the key moments for your garden. In this blog post you will read which plants benefit from spring pruning and what to look out for.

Why prune

Pruning plants in the right way and at the right time promotes growth and health. Pruning fruit trees leads to a richer harvest, while pruning ornamental shrubs, for example, results in more flowers. Plants that flower in summer should be pruned in spring. After winter - from around mid-January - growth juices are squeezed through the trunk and branches. By pruning in spring, you stimulate growth, make it easier for the plant by removing dead branches and keep growth under control. In other words, by pruning you give new impetus to your plant.

What do you pay attention to before you start pruning?

Whether you prune in spring, autumn or just before the turn of the year, everything depends on the right equipment. Blunt pruning shears will cause the pruning wound to fray which, for example, gives fungi the chance to attack that area. Are your pruning shears in need of replacement? Invest in new pruning tools or have your pruning shears or saw sharpened.

Following the weather forecast closely is a must for those who want to prune in spring. Do not prune during frost or if you know frost is coming shortly after pruning.

Pruning technique

Before you start pruning, take a good look at exactly which branches need to be removed. It is important to keep the structure of the plant in balance. Always prune just above a place where there is a young shoot facing outwards. After pruning, the shoot will continue to grow, keeping an open structure. This way, you can influence the shape of your shrub yourself.

Which plants, trees, shrubs to prune in spring?

Fruit trees such as apple or pear trees: in February when it is not freezing to create more air in the crown
Roses: continuous-flowering roses should be pruned from the first week of March above a bud
Butterfly bush: from mid-March to the end of April, when no more heavy night frost is coming
Hydrangea: around mid-March
Lavender: from mid-March to the beginning of April
Winter jasmine: after flowering in March
Catalpa: every two years in March

Which plants shoud you definitely NOT prune in spring?

Plants that bleed easily such as cherry, plum, peach or apricot. You prune these stone fruit trees in June/July 1-2 weeks after harvest. In spring, pruning wounds do not heal as well so there is a greater chance of fungi.
Spring-flowering shrubs and climbers
Plants that flower in spring or early summer but have not yet done so

With these tips and tricks, you can be sure to enjoy a garden in full bloom after spring pruning. Also feel free to take a look in our webshop for pruning tools!

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