Pruning

 

Pruning is the practice of cutting away unwanted growth; it may be diseased, overmature, or simply in the way. Deadheading (removing spent flowers before they begin to set seed) in order to concentrate a plant's energy on continued flower production is also a form of pruning, as is the practice of pinching back herbaceous plants, such as chrysanthemums to delay flowering or to encourage denser or more prolific growth.

Individual plant species tend to have very different pruning needs, and in this section we aim to offer you a complete guide to the major forms, including shrubs, roses, trees, climbers and hedges. Armed with these chief principles of pruning, you'll be able to use this knowledge to improve significantly the look and health of your plants.

Why Prune?
A look at the some of the reasons why we prune plants and the three major pruning types: renovative, regenerative and formative.
Pruning Basics
Advice and information on making clean, accurate pruning cuts.
How to Prune Climbers
Everything you need to know about pruning climbing plants such as clematis.
How to Prune Hedges
Find out about pruning, shaping and renovating evergreen or deciduous hedging.
How to Prune Roses
Discover some of the pruning techniques for standard roses, bush roses, ramblers and climbers.
How to Prune Shrubs
General tips and guidelines on pruning shrubs to improve their ornamental qualities and maintain their shape.
How to Prune Trees
A comprehensive look at pruning evergreen and deciduous trees, with additional information on coppicing, pollarding and removing branches.