3 Ways You Could Be Doing Shrub Pruning Wrong!

If you want your shrubs to thrive, you need to prune them. However, just because something needs to be done doesn't mean that you can do it at any time! Here in our area of Florida, many homeowners make common mistakes like pruning their plants at the wrong time, pruning too much of their plants, which can actually do more harm than good, or using dull tools while pruning, which can cause damage to your plants and result in an uneven cut. Read our blog to learn more about these common pruning mistakes!

1. Pruning At The Wrong Time For Your Specific Plants

One major way you could be doing shrub pruning wrong is by performing this task at the wrong time for your specific types of plants. Different plants require pruning at different times, as they are susceptible to various diseases or stressors that may hinder proper growth if not pruned during a certain season. For example, some plants like roses bloom in early spring and require regular pruning throughout the growing season to maintain optimal shape and size. This process should typically occur in mid-to-late winter before new growth begins. On the other hand, others might require trimming in late fall after flowering. By knowing the best time to prune your plants, you can ensure they receive the necessary care to flourish year-round!

2. Pruning Too Much Of Your Shrubs

Another common mistake when it comes to shrub pruning is cutting back too much of your plants. While it may seem counterintuitive, pruning too much from your plants can actually have adverse effects on their overall health and appearance. For this reason, you want to be sure to only prune what's needed. Additionally, each plant has a specific "pruning window", meaning there is a limited period during each growing season where branches can tolerate heavy cuts. If you exceed this limit, you risk causing unnecessary stress to your plants. As a result, your plants may struggle to produce flowers or fruits, plus become more vulnerable to pests and diseases.

3. Using Dull Tools To Prune Your Shrubs

The final way you could be doing shrub pruning wrong is by using dull tools. Sharp tools provide clean cuts without tearing the bark or leaving jagged edges, which can otherwise inhibit healthy regrowth. Conversely, dull blades tend to rip through the branches, damaging the vascular system and hindering efficient nutrient uptake. Not only that but since the cut isn't smooth, it takes longer for your plants to heal. When this happens, they become more susceptible to diseases and insect infestations. Additionally, it's easier to accidentally injure your plants when using dull tools, making it crucial to sharpen them regularly for precise, effective pruning.

Call us today to sign up for our professional shrub pruning service!

At Leafy Landscapes, we offer a shrub pruning service to help keep your plants looking manicured and pristine throughout the year. Our dedicated detail crew will prune your shrubs based on industry standards to promote healthy growth and flower development. We follow a strict schedule tailored to the unique requirements of various plants to ensure we prune them at the correct time, and we use sharp tools to yield the best results. What's more, you can schedule our pruning service on a monthly, bi-monthly, or quarterly basis to ensure you're able to select an option that best meets your shrubs' needs.

We proudly serve residential properties in New Smyrna Beach, Port Orange, Ponce Inlet, and nearby areas in Florida. Call us at (386) 492-8862 to sign up for our shrub pruning service today!