Pruning: A Beginner’s Guide to Avoiding Common Mistakes
Pruning is an important gardening task that can help your plants grow healthy and strong. But if you don’t do it correctly, you can actually harm your plants. Here are seven common pruning mistakes to avoid:
Pruning at the Wrong Time of Year
Most plants should be pruned in winter when they are dormant. But there are some exceptions. For example, cherry and plum trees should be pruned in summer to reduce the risk of silver leaf disease. Flowering shrubs should be pruned after they have finished blooming.
Pruning Too Much
When you prune, you are removing stems and leaves, which are two important sources of food for the plant. Removing too much material at once can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease.
Not Pruning Above a Node
The node is where leaves, buds, and shoots emerge from the stem. You should always cut just above a node to prevent dieback and disease.
Not Cleaning Secateurs
Dirty and blunt pruning tools can spread disease between plants. Make sure to clean and disinfect your tools after each use.
Not Pruning at an Angle
When pruning branches, it’s important to cut at a downward angle so that water can run off the wound and prevent fungal infections.
Not Pruning Out Canker
Canker is a bacterial infection that can kill trees. If you see signs of canker, prune out the infected wood immediately.
Not Removing Die-Back
Die-back is the death of plant tissue, which can be caused by a variety of factors. If you see die-back, prune out the dead tissue to prevent disease from spreading.
By following these tips, you can avoid common pruning mistakes and keep your plants healthy and beautiful.
