The secret of pruning unraveled

4196 aronia mel. revontuli hedger uconnam166 4 proven winners garden

Het geheim van snoeien ontrafeld

Spoiler: it's not hard at all!

Many gardeners find pruning complicated. Because when should you prune and aren’t you pruning too much or too little? In this blog we answer these questions and we can reassure you in advance: it's actually quite easy!

Is it always necessary to prune? 

Most shrubs, including those from Proven Winners®, have a naturally appealing habit and therefore do not require extensive pruning to remain healthy and beautiful. In doubt? Then don't prune. Is the shrub getting too tall or too wide, or is it hardly flowering? Then get out the pruning shears. 

Before pruning

It is good to know that there are two types of flowering shrubs: those that flower on old wood (from last year) and those that flower on new wood (this year). Shrubs that flower on old wood are best pruned immediately after flowering. Shrubs blooming on new wood should be pruned in the spring. Tip: Does the shrub bloom (well) before 21 June? Then it usually blooms on old wood. Want to know more about pruning?  Check out our explanation 'Pruning Demystified'!

Okay, scissors in!

Try to prune about a third of the branches. You can do this in two ways. Cut the entire bush back evenly or prune selected branches near the ground. You do the latter to rejuvenate the bush or to bring "air" into it. Always use sharp pruning shears and cut the branch straight, this will keep the "wound" as small as possible.  

Tell yourself, pruning is not difficult at all!

 


 

Related blogs

Inspiration, Hydrangea
The perfect Hydrangea for your garden
With Hydrangea’s, you bring a feast of colour to your garden all summer long. It is a beautiful shrub that flowers very abundantly with fantastic flowers. Hydrangea’s thrive in both sun and shade and require little maintenance. It is a favourite garden plant for a reason! But did you know that there are as many as 20 different species of Hydrangea? Each with lots of cultivars. Five varieties are the most commonly used and will do great in your garden.
Read more
Gardening tips
7 basics for planting your new shrub
It's October. You've scored a beautiful Proven Winners® shrub and now is the best time to put it in your garden. But how do you go about that? Fortunately, we can help you with our 7-step planting plan. Follow these planting basics and you can be sure your new plant will get the best start.
Read more
Hydrangea, Summer
The ultimate summer guide for your hydrangea
It's the height of summer – the time when hydrangeas are at their most beautiful. With their exuberant flowers, long flowering period and versatility, it's no surprise that they are a favourite among gardening enthusiasts. But how do you keep them looking their best during the hot days? With these care tips, you can give your hydrangeas everything they need.
Read more
Tips & tricks
How to design a garden you'll truly enjoy – 5 smart steps
May is the month when gardens really come to life. It's the perfect time to think about your garden design – whether you're landscaping a bare patch or want to give an existing garden a fresh look. With these five steps, you can create a garden that's not only beautiful, but also suits your style.
Read more
Tips & tricks, Pruning, Gardening tips
Hooray: pruning really isn't always necessary!
It is perhaps the most frequently described chore in the garden: pruning. Many gardeners are quite reluctant to do it because they are unsure about the approach. What is the best time, how much should be taken off? Pruning stress lurks. But relax! Many Proven Winners© shrubs don't need pruning to stay healthy and beautiful. And if you do want to prune, think about the reason.
Read more
Inspiration, Hydrangea
The enchanting Hydrangea: for spectacular summer blooms in your garden
Welcome to the enchanting world of the Hydrangea! This beautiful shrub has great appeal. With its lush flowers and vibrant colours, the Hydrangea is definitely an asset to your garden, patio or balcony. Find out here why Hydrangeas have such a charm.
Read more