People ask me all the time: when is the best time to prune [insert any plant name here]. There are optimal times and then there is real life.
Example: the BEST time to prune azaleas is pretty much right after they bloom. I didn’t do that with one of my clients last December and I also didn’t do that with my own rhododendrons last summer (same common wisdom for these two plants and they are in the same family). This was the time that was available and both worked out just fine.
Be bold but take precautions and try not to kill your plants: if it’s really hot, water a lot right afterward and fertilize ones that are weak or on which you do a major pruning. Don’t prune if it is or is about to be very cold. That’s it. Don’t be intimidated. Anyone want to get out the loopers (or chain saw) with me? Let’s go!
I have a pruning guide that covers all the major categories of plants if that is something that would help to navigate this process. See here: stan.store/youcandoitgardening
My goal is to empower as many people as possible to get out there and get their hands dirty. I’m in zone 6 in the Boston area but almost all of the principles I talk about are applicable to any garden.🌺
-Here's the link to my website for scheduling consultations: linktr.ee/youcandoitgardening