How to Prune Deciduous Shrubs

Deciduous shrubs develop several stems and/or trunks, all of them growing from near the base of the plant. They also grow extra canes that also grow from the bottom. If left alone, they will become trunks and the plant will become weaker. You will also notice fewer flowers because the plant is devoting its energy to producing the canes, not flowers. You will also have to prune away any dead or diseased twigs and stems. Other reasons to prune include keeping the size under control and shaping the shrub. Proper pruning will also encourage the new growth to produce more buds and bring back life to older plants.

Timing is important when it comes to pruning deciduous shrubs. You can prune away any small twigs, broken or dead material and weak or branches that are too much in the shade any time of the year. Never prune during the rainy season. Pruning leaves an open wound that takes time to heal. Bacteria thrive in the rainy season and open wounds are an invitation for them to invade the plant.

Pruning in the winter, when the plant is dormant, will encourage nore new growth in the spring. Prune in mid to late summer if you do not want the shrub to grow any taller. Make small cuts because it takes the wounds longer to heal in the summer. This is also a good time to remove those suckering canes. Don't prune when the leaves are changing. Flowering shrubs can be pruned in the spring after the flowers appear.

Use long handled loppers or a small curved pruning saw to remove the weakest stems at ground level. This will allow air and light to penetrate into the interior. Good air circulation lessens the chance of a fungal infection.

Prune away side branches all the way back to the main branch or trunk to reduce the size and thickness of the shrub.

Older plants may have to be cut back all the way to the ground. New growth will come up from the roots. Prune the new shoots as you would a new bush.

Shearing is another option. This involves cutting away the outer foliage using either an hand or power trimmer. This method is used to create topiary or a formal hedge.

Always use the proper pruning tools. Use regular scissors will damage the plant. Make sure they are sharp as well. Using the wrong or dull tools will make a jaggered instead of a smooth cut.

Source:

Washington State University