Corona's Principles of Pruning How to Guide

coronatoolsusa.com

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

stimulate 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

sericea), blueberries, and nandinas.

Be aware that some ﬂ owering 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 ﬂ owers are fading, cut them

back to a height of six inches or a foot from the ground.

WORKING WITH WOODY SHRUBS

Presented by: