in the Spring. Winter pruning involves cutting back dormant plants to encourage healthy growth, fruit, and flower production, and can be done when plants are dormant. In the Midwest, the timing would typically be between November and February. Some exceptions include spring- blooming shrubs, such as lilacs and rhododendrons, as well as stone fruits like peaches, which should be pruned in the summer. Pruning should be done on a mild, dry day to avoid damaging the plant or spreading disease. Never prune too early in the winter, as incisions can dry out if the temperature drops well below freezing. Wait for a relatively mild, sunny day, get out your pruners, and take a critical look at your trees and shrubs.
Never leave a stub or the kind of open ends that result from shearing off the top of a plant. Open ends can create dense
horizontal sucker-type growth. Cut an undesirable branch just above a bud, keeping in mind that a new branch will grow from that bud. Ideally, the bud should face outward so that the branch will grow toward the exterior of the plant. When removing a limb from a trunk or other large branch, never cut flush to the trunk.
Look for insect problems. Egg masses of tent caterpillars and moths are often visible on tree branches in winter. Remove them by hand or prune out to control insect damage in the Spring. Look for signs of disease. While closely inspecting branches, take the opportunity to check for unusual swellings, open lesions, or darkened areas that could be symptoms of canker and disease.
Mistakes to Avoid When Pruning Trees 1. Research the best time for your tree type. Late winter or early Spring is usually ideal.
2. Don’t remove more than 25% of a tree’s crown in one season. Focus on dead or diseased branches.
3. Avoid cutting the main branches.
4. Keep your tools sharp for clean cuts and better healing. 5. Wear protective gear and consider hiring a professional for large trees.
6. Focus on removing dead or overcrowded branches; avoid cutting healthy ones over 4 inches in diameter unless necessary.
While the act of cutting can feel counterintuitive, remember that thoughtful and timely pruning is an investment in future growth and vitality. So, sharpen your shears, step outside, and let the pruning begin.
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