Jamie Hancock: Let the pruning begin
— Burrr! But, then, we have had so little winter, what’s a little cold rain in the grand scheme of things?The comforting thought is that spring will arrive and probably before we know it. So, we need to be prepared. Spring cleaning and spring pruning are on the agenda.
Deciduous trees and branches that are dead, dying or broken can be pruned anytime. Mid-February to mid-April is ideal, however, for pruning most woody plants. The plants are still dormant and it is easier to see what you are doing without all of the leaves in the way. Pruning now also shortens the wound exposure time before the plant wakes and begins the healing process.
Pruning can improve plant health, open up views, improve the appearance of the plant, create special forms, encourage flowering and fruiting, control size, and clean up water sprouts and suckers.
All of these will improve the “curb appeal” of your home.
Well, let’s get cracking (hacking, sawing, etc.). Here are some simple things you should know.
