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Pruning These Plants In Winter Is A Big Mistake
By MASIE O'TOOLE
Jasmine
Pruning jasmine bushes at the right time is crucial
for enhancing their appearance and fragrance. Summer-blooming jasmine should be pruned in early fall after blooming.
If you prune them in winter, you'll cut off the buds
and prevent blooming. Conversely, winter-blooming jasmine should be pruned after it flowers in late winter or early spring.
Lavender
Pruning lavender is crucial for its health and appearance, but timing is key to avoid damage. It can thrive for years with proper care but
is sensitive to cold weather.
Pruning before frost or in cold weather can spur new growth during a vulnerable time, making the plant more susceptible to frost damage than if left unpruned
until warmer months.
Azaleas
Like summer-blooming jasmine, azaleas and rhododendrons should be pruned immediately after their blooms fade to avoid accidentally cutting off next year's buds.
Pruning in summer ensures that you get a well-maintained and healthy plant during its inactive season, and a colorful and vibrant display of flowers
when it blooms.
Maple Trees
Winter is the peak "bleeding" season for maples, and pruning during this time can lead to excessive sap dripping, causing stains on the bark.
It can also make the tree more susceptible to pests and disease. To avoid these issues, it's advised to prune in the summer and avoid winter pruning, except when tapping for syrup.
Sweet Cherry Trees
For most fruit trees, winter pruning during dormancy is beneficial, but sweet cherry trees need a different approach due to their susceptibility to disease.
Recently cut limbs on these trees are hotspots for infection. Therefore, it's recommended to perform a light pruning in the summer when they are less likely
to develop problems.