As spring approaches, many homeowners begin to think about their yard's landscape. To ensure healthy spring plants, now is the time to start thinking about pruning the trees and shrubs around the home. However, do not just prune for the sake of pruning, make sure you have a valid reason for pruning before you begin.
The winter months can be damaging to trees and shrubs. Pruning during the late winter months allows for the removal of damage caused by winter winds and precipitation. The wounds caused by pruning heal most quickly this time of year just as new growth is emerging on the plant.
Pruning also allows removal of diseased, crowded, or hazardous branches. When pruning trees, the size of the tree does not need to be reduced too much in one season. Limit the pruning amount to one-fourth of the tree's volume. Start by thinning out branches by cutting them off close to the tree's trunk or a large limb.
