I get lots and lots of questions about pruning trees and shrubs. There is no single rule for what should be pruned and when, but I just want to remind you that, in general, there are very few reasons to prune. There are so many more useful ways to spend time in the garden, so let’s talk about why you shouldn’t be spending a lot of time pruning.
First: Right plant, right place. Before you plant, carefully consider what the full size of the plant you’ve chosen will be. Plants in our area can grow to their full size in just a few years. If you already have a plant in the ground that is too big for its spot, take it out. There are so many lovely plants to choose from, there is no reason to wrestle with one that is too big for the space.
Next: When you prune a plant by topping or shaping it, what you’re really doing is stimulating its growth. Prune the top of a plant that naturally wants to grow tall and it will end up growing wide, wide, wide and thick with water shoots/suckers. It does not honor the plant and its natural beauty to try to make it conform to artificial dimensions.
Last: If you really need to prune, generally the best time to do it is just after the plant is done flowering. Cut all the way back to trunk so the wound can grow over, don't leave little stubs. Don't cut into the main bark, and for God's sake, never top your trees. Just like us, your tree or shrub needs a leader. That is the main upward branch. If it has no leader it will put all it's energy in to all the branches going sideways and send millions of water shoots/suckers out trying to fight for it's life. Then the crazy cycle of pruning begins. You fight all the growth, and like a good soldier, the plant fights for it's life and leader...
There are exceptions, of course. I’m a sucker for espalier anything. I think Bonsai is an art form, and the occasional topiary doesn’t ruffle my feathers.
On the one hand, gardening is a way to learn about and be a part of nature. But on the other hand, it is man vs. nature. My point is that pruning for the sake of size control or because you were taught that you just should…is a waste of your time. Instead you could be weeding, making compost, hauling compost, planting, deadheading, or just sitting in your garden and enjoying it...
If you want in-depth info on pruning, go to the Plant Amnesty website : www.plantamnesty.org or, pick up a copy of Cass Turnbull's Guide to Pruning – What, When, Where & How to Prune for a Beautiful Garden.
