There are many reasons to prune shrubs and ornamental trees during their dormant season, some of these reasons include; health, vigor, flower production, maintaining size and more. To improve and maintain the health of your landscape, consider a dormant pruning. Benefits include:
- Disease and Pest Control: Pruning during the dormant season helps to remove diseased or infested branches, reducing the risk of diseases and pests from spreading during the growing season.
- Encourages New Growth: Pruning during dormancy stimulates new growth in the spring. This can help shape the plant or tree and encourage healthy, vigorous growth.
- Improved Air Circulation: Thinning out branches during dormancy can improve air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal diseases like powdery mildew and improving overall plant health.
- Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal: Pruning during the dormant season can help maintain the desired shape and appearance of trees and shrubs, making your landscape more visually appealing. Also note; without leaves, it’s easier to see the structure of the plant and make more precise pruning cuts.
- Structural Support: Pruning can improve the structural integrity of trees, reducing the risk of limbs breaking under heavy snow or strong winds.
- Reduced Stress: Pruning during dormancy minimizes the stress on the plant since it’s not actively growing.
- Increased Flower Production: Flowering trees and shrubs can benefit from dormant pruning by removing crowded or rubbing branches, leading to increased flower production.
However, remember, not all plants thrive from a dormant pruning. For instance, while cold weather is best for pruning most ornamental trees, it is not the best time for certain evergreens or boxwoods. Also, there are specific pruning techniques for specialty plants like hydrangeas, roses, hollies and rhododendrons that can dramatically increase their blooming performance. It’s important to note that the timing of dormant pruning is crucial also. It is typically done during late winter or early spring before new growth begins. The specific timing may vary depending on the type of shrub or tree you are pruning.
While dormant pruning offers numerous benefits and is essential to the health of some ornamental trees and shrubs, it’s vital to follow proper pruning techniques and consider the unique needs of each plant or tree to ensure the best results.
For an evaluation and pruning quote for your landscape, give us call at 989-835-8260 or request a quote here and give your plants a healthy start this spring!