Preparing For Winter Pruning
Winter is a time when many plants will shed their foliage and go into dormancy, saving their energy for the new season. It's the perfect opportunity to prioritise the much-needed task of pruning. While it may be tempting to overlook this job during the colder months, pruning plays a pivotal role in nurturing a healthy and flourishing garden.
Before You Prune Your Tree
Before embarking on the task of pruning your tree, it's advisable to keep a few key considerations in mind ensuring that your pruning efforts are effective and beneficial for the overall health of the tree.
Whatever you are pruning, remember to follow the Three D's by removing any plant parts that are Dead, Diseased, and Damaged. By following this principle you’re ensuring targeted and effective removal of unsightly, potentially harmful, and diseased branches
Prune on a dry day and wait until the forecast looks like it will stay dry for another few days. Wet conditions increase the risk of post-pruning bacterial or fungal problems. Think of the pruning cuts as wounds to the tree; and like wounds, they can get infected.
It’s also important to remember to use sharp, clean appropriate pruning tools and follow proper pruning techniques to avoid damaging your plants.
Reasons Why Pruning in Winter is Beneficial
The tree’s structure is more visible when the leaves have fallen. Therefore, during the winter months it is easier to prune trees
Pruning during the cooler winter months minimises stress on plants due to reduced temperatures.
here are fewer diseases in winter as they hibernate. So, pruning is beneficial during this time since they are less likely to be transmitted during the winter.
Pruning during winter will help stimulate new growth in spring when plants can benefit from ample sunlight, nutrients, and moisture.
Winter is an ideal time to invest in pruning your trees. By recognising the advantages, using the appropriate tools and making a plan, you can help your trees to flourish and prepare them for a lively and thriving spring.
If taking this job on is still too daunting, then you may want to consider booking a once off visit from our team of skilled gardeners.
Get in touch to book a consultation today.
