Now (i.e. late winter/early spring) is a good time to prune many species of plants because new tissue forms rapidly, and, through pruning, the energy stored in the roots and stems can be directed toward forming new growth.
To reduce the height of a shrub or shape it, there are two methods that the Dallas County Master Gardeners Association recommends:
- Cut back a selected branch to your preferred length. Notice where the outward-facing buds on the branch are located (or pairs of leaves) and cut above the bud or leaf pair where you want to stimulate new growth. (A common pruning mistake is cutting all branches back to the same height. This results in a top heavy, leggy shrub with an unnatural form.)
- Completely remove one or more of the longest or tallest branches by cutting the branch back to its point of origin. The point of origin could be another branch or the main trunk, or near the ground. The removal of an entire branch does not directly stimulate new growth, but it does open the shrub to allow more light to penetrate, which in turn will promote new growth toward the center of the shrub.
Note that pruning of oak trees should be avoided until June 30 to prevent the spread of oak wilt. Also delay pruning of plants that bloom in the spring until after flowering or you risk removing this year’s buds.
More information:
Prune Like A Pro – Dallas County Master Gardeners Association
Rose pruning tips for stronger, more vibrant flowers – AgriLife Today
