In addition to saving our customers time, perhaps the biggest benefit of our pruning service is the health of your plants.

Ornamental trees and shrubs require special care when it comes to pruning. Proper pruning is necessary to promote good plant health. When you prune, you are removing dead or damaged limbs, encouraging new growth, and helping your plants maintain their shape. However, if you prune during the wrong time of year or using improper techniques, you may actually do more harm to your plants than good.

Here in the southeastern United States, ornamental trees and shrubs that bloom during the summer are pruned during winter and early spring. This of course depends on the plant variety. Crepe Myrtle trees for example, are typically pruned in mid to late February when the threat of heavy frost is low. Many other shrub varieties can be pruned late fall into early winter as they prepare for dormancy.

Rejuvenation pruning is something that is particularly beneficial during the colder months. This type of pruning refers to the removal of old, overgrown limbs and stems, allowing the plant to grow new, vigorous branches in their place.  Typically this is done for over grown plants that need to be smaller. This service includes cutting back the majority of growth to promote new growth that can be better maintained at the desired height.

A good example of this is a holly hedge planted at the foundation of a house that has grown up to 6’ tall and blocks views from the windows of the home.  In February (depending on your climate zone), the holly can be cut back to 2’ tall.  The plant will begin to thrive again through the spring and summer, pushing out new growth and filling in nicely.  The holly can then be maintained to the desired height of 3’ tall.

Many trees and shrubs do not require much pruning and can instead be managed by “pinching“. Pinching simply refers to removing terminal buds with your thumb and forefinger, by pinching them. Other pruning methods to consider based on the plant variety and its needs are heading, shearing and thinning. Each method accomplishes a different goal depending on what is necessary for the tree or shrub.

Our Canopy Crews are equipped with all of the necessary tools and knowledge to properly prune your ornamental trees and shrubs during the right season with both aesthetics and plant health in mind.

Do you have questions about pruning? Are you looking for a full service lawn care company that can help you properly maintain your ornamental trees and shrubs? Contact Canopy today! 919.249.6670