Tips for Trimming Your Shrubs
The best time of year to trim the shrubs in your yard is early in the summer, or to be more exact, the period of time that exists between the end of spring but before the heat of summer gets underway. It is recommended that you trim your shrubs at least once throughout the year in order to get rid of dead branches and to lend support to the new growth. Trimming also helps to give your shrubs a more manicured and cared-for appearance.
The tools you use to trim your shrubs are really up to you. Some people prefer power trimmers while others prefer the more traditional manual scissor-action trimmers and a pruning shears.
Here are some tips to bear in mind when you decide to give your shrubs the trim they need:
-You need sharp blades regardless of which tool you use for trimming. Check the blades out (but be careful- ouch!) before you get started. Blades that are dull can crush branches and foliage.
-Mature shrubs need to have approximately six inches of growth trimmed away, while younger shrubs need approximately three inches cut away.
-Always cut the branches of your shrubs at an angle. Also, cut away from the buds.
-If you are unsure about any aspect of trimming, then seek advice from a gardener before you go ahead and do anything. If you do not know anyone who gardens, then ask for assistance from an individual who works at a local nursery.
-All shrubs are not created alike and not all shrubs adhere to the same rules of trimming. For example, the species of your shrub plays a role in trimming practices, as does the gardening zone you live in.
-Aggressive pruning is a no-no as this can end up damaging the shrub or worse yet, killing it all together.
-Trim your flowering shrubs within one month after they have completed flowering. If you trim later, you could end up cutting off the blossoms for the following year.
-In order to know if a branch is dead or not, scrape the surface away with your shears. If you see a green or white color, then it is healthy. On the other hand if you see brown or black, then the branch is dead.
-Always protect your hands by wearing gardening gloves. You don’t want to end up with cuts or blisters. Yuck!
