Winter pruning masterclass
Nothing can strike fear into our collective hearts as much as the techniques and timings associated with pruning.
But don’t be daunted – pruning is just about keeping plants healthy, whether that’s by removing dead wood or to promote healthy growth, fruit and flowers. Pruning shrubs and trees in winter, when they’re not in active growth has many benefits, such as:
■ Reducing problems with diseases and pests
■ Making it easy to see damaged and dead wood
■ Providing an opportunity to evaluate structure and shape
Early winter (November-December)
As many plants shed their leaves and move into dormancy in early winter, the structure and make-up of their branches and stems are revealed.
November and
