How do I trim bushes?

Jerry
by Jerry

What is the best time to trim the "evergreen" bushes...Springtime, summer or fall?

  5 answers
  • Well Jerry, it depends on the plant. They all have different needs. For instance, roses get pruned in late winter to early spring. Hydrangeas - some grow on old wood, some grow on new wood, if you prune at the wrong time, you may not have any blooms. Some plants will die if you prune in late fall or winter as they will not have time to harden off before snow flies. Location has a lot to do with it too. What zone are you in? Find out here:


    https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/PHZMWeb/


    If in a milder zone, plants are more forgiving. But if you live where there are blizzards and bitter cold, it could kill your plants.


    So if you can tell us what plants you have, we can make better suggestions.

  • Stephie McCarthy Stephie McCarthy on Dec 09, 2018

    I agree with Naomie. What I always do, is check for the name of the plant on the Internet to find out what time of year it should be pruned. If you don't know the name, you can snap a picture of it to show to gardeners either in person or on the Internet. It's important to research first, especially if the shrub is flowering, because pruning at the wrong time can cut off tiny buds.

  • Cindy Cindy on Dec 09, 2018

    Hi Jerry. I'm Cindy. When it comes to pruning, I use the Old Farmer's method which is: From Spring thru Fall only prune during months that have an "R" in their name. For example, you can prune in April but not in May. May does not contain an R. April does contain an R. I like this method because it's easy to remember. Good luck Jerry and Happy Holidays.

  • Joy30150932 Joy30150932 on Dec 10, 2018

    You can trim them now but I usually do mine in the Spring.

  • DesertRose DesertRose on Dec 16, 2018

    Trim them in very late winter or very early spring.