Corona's Principles of Pruning

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Shrubs can vary greatly in their
pruning needs even shrubs in the same
genus (hydrangeas or roses, for exam-
ple) may have very different require-
ments. This is why it’s always a good
idea to seek out in-depth instructions
for a particular plant to ensure you are
giving it the most appropriate care.
That said, most deciduous shrubs tend to be fairly
forgiving when it comes to pruning. Preventive prun-
ing for them involves removing a few of the oldest or
weakest branches from the crown of the shrub close
to the soil surface. When spring arrives, this will stim-
ulate vigorous growth from the crown of the shrub to
keep it looking its best. This method works well for
plants such as lilacs, red-osier dogwoods (Cornus ser-
icea), blueberries, and nandinas.
Be aware that some flowering shrubs that bloom on
old wood—forsythias, ornamental quinces (Chaenome-
les spp.), weigelas, and ninebarks (Physocarpus spp.),
to name a few—should be allowed to bloom prior to
pruning. Then, just as the flowers are fading, cut them
back to a height of six inches or a foot from the ground.
WORKING WITH WOODY SHRUBS
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