When to Prune Shrubs | Gardening Advice

Wondering when to prune shrubs like lilacs and azaleas? Read on for some expert gardening advice.

When to Prune Shrubs | Gardening Advice

Some of the plants in our yard have grown too large and are looking untidy. When is the best time to prune flowering shrubs and hedges, such as dwarf cork bushes, azaleas, rhododendrons, and lilacs? — M.S., Mahopac, NY

Early spring, before growth begins, is an ideal time to prune flowering shrubs and ornamental shrubs, especially those grown for their foliage rather than their flowers. Shearing or pruning evergreen hedges such as arborvitae, yew, and boxwood shapes them and encourages new growth, for a denser appearance. Deciduous plants used for foliage, such as cork bush (Euonymus alatus) and privet, can be treated similarly. As you cut them back, be sure to shape the plants somewhat wider at the bottom so sunlight can reach the lower branches. For flowering shrubs such as azalea, rhododendron, and lilac, pruning before they bloom removes some flowering buds. Unless you don’t care about this year’s flowers, wait until just after they finish blooming to cut them back.

If your plants are really overgrown, you may want to improve their shape by more drastic pruning, perhaps over several years. Removing a third of the large stems and trunks each year will enable the plants to renew young shoots while still maintaining an attractive appearance.

— R. Wayne Mezitt, Chairman, Weston Nurseries, Hopkinton, Massachusetts

Do you have any tips or advice for when to prune shrubs (ornamental, flowering, or otherwise)? Let us know in the comments below.

This post was first published in 2015 and has been updated. 

SEE MORE:
Best Spring Flower Festivals in New England
How to Prune Houseplants | Gardening Advice
How to Prune Apple Trees | Gardening Advice

Yankee Magazine

More by Yankee Magazine