Pruning

Some pruning chores can be done away with simply by planting the right tree or shrub in the right place. Use a plant that is the right size for its space so that it doesn't require constant pruning just to keep it within bounds. Many trees and shrubs are available in dwarf versions that might be more suitable for the space you have available.

There are only four reasons why trees, bushes, and shrubs should be pruned. First, pruning can be used to train young plants into the right growth direction or habit. The earliest pruning with young transplants should be just to remove any dead or broken branches or stems. Wait until trunk branches are at least one inch in diameter before limbing up, which is removing the lowest branches to raise the height of the canopy. These lower branches help to strengthen the trunk while the tree is young.

Secondly, pruning maintains the plant's good health and removes any dead, diseased or damaged branches. Then look for branches that cross too closely and rub against each other, lateral branches with too-narrow spacing in the crotch, or branches that head into the center of the plant instead outward. With an annual pruning, these are the first cuts you should make. It may open up a plant's interior enough so that further pruning is unnecessary.

Thirdly, prune for aesthetic reasons, to keep plants in bounds, to maintain vigorous growth, to create a pleasing overall shape. Finally, prune plants to encourage strong flowering and fruiting. Pruning is best done when the plants are dormant. Exceptions to this rule are spring-flowering shrubs, which should be pruned after the flowers start to die.