Since winter is dormant season, it’s typically the best time of year for pruning plants. However, some species should be free of cuts this season. Learn which ones to leave alone and why.

Don’t Prune These Plants in Winter

Pruning plants has many benefits, including dropping dead branches and invigorating growth. But cut at the wrong time, and pruning can have the opposite effect on plants and actually harm their health. Depending on the type of plant, pruning now may mean less spring blooms and more risk of pests and disease.

Here are the plants you should leave alone and why.

1. Spring Bloomers. Whether you have a forsythia shrub or dogwood tree, these plants have already started producing buds that will burst next season, unless you cut them. Not only will pruning these plants leave your yard less colorful, but it also leaves pollinators with less options when they return. The best time to prune these plants is after their blooms have withered. As for plants that bloom in the summer, you can cut these back in late winter or early spring.
2. Stone Fruit Trees. Some fruit trees should be pruned in the winter, like apples and pears. But some should not, like apricot, peach, and cherry. Prune these in the spring or summer to help prevent disease like silver leaf. This condition can spread from pruning wounds that take longer to heal over the winter.
3. Bleeder Trees. Trees that produce sap—like maples, elm, and walnut—often bleed after pruning. No only will it lose more sap since the cuts take longer to seal, but it also attracts pests and leads to disease. It’s better to wait until late spring when the tree can heal quicker.
4. Woody Herbs. Pruning herbs like rosemary, lavender, and thyme help control their size and produce bushier foliage. But pruning in the winter can reduce the plant’s hardiness and leave wounds open to frostbite. Wait until you see new growth in the spring before cutting back these plants.
5. Evergreen Shrubs. Trim boxwoods and other evergreens in the early spring or late summer to help keep the size and shape manageable and encourage healthy growth. They may not have the energy to survive the winter if they’re busy healing wounds now.

Help keep all of your plants healthy throughout the season and you’ll be rewarded with brilliant blooms and vibrant growth. If you’re still unsure of the best way to treat your specific trees and shrubs, there’s one place you can turn.

Pruning Plants Like a Pro

Elite Tree Care specializes in plant healthcare throughout the year. As ISA-certified arborists, we not only know when your trees should be pruned, but we’re experienced in safely trimming them to encourage healthy growth. Call 610-935-2279 to learn more about how our pruning services can enhance the life of your plants and the beauty of your yard.