Fall Garden Calendar - Pruning Do's and Don'ts

Knowing what and when to prune in your garden can be both time consuming and confusing. And, let's face it. We're not all Martha Steward, who has the time and the staff to write a gardening calendar for her each month.

The following is a small list of common shrubs and flowers grown throughout the United States. If one of your beloved plants is not included on this list go to your local garden center and ask them for advice on the best pruning method for that particular genus or species.

Do - Prune Hydrangeas.


These must be pruned by early fall, before the winter chill sets in.
If you have hydrangeas and haven't pruned them put that on
your to-do list for this coming weekend.

Do - Prune Roses

Whenever they're finished blooming. Depending on your variety
and what zone you are in this could be any time of year.

Do - Prune Perennial Flowers

As long as they're blooming cut the flowers when they begin to turn brown or dry out.
Many varieties of perennials will reward you with more blooms!

Do - Prune Annual Flowers

Same thing as with perennials. You may be rewarded with
more blooms and also a longer life for the flower.

Don't - Prune Crepe Myrtle or the Butterfly Bush.

Not yet. Wait until early winter and then cut back hard for the most blooms.

Don't - Prune Forsythias and Rhododendrons.

These are shrubs that bloom in early spring and need to be pruned in summer.
If you prune them now you will probably cut some new buds and get fewer flowers in spring. 

Don't - Prune Apple, Peach or Pear Trees.

Not yet. Wait until winter when they're dormant.

After you're finished pruning have a refreshing drink on your deck - https://www.pinterest.com/summercasual/garden-in-a-glass/ - and enjoy knowing you had a really productive day in the garden. You will reap the benefits in spring!