Autumn is the perfect time to get pruning done, but an expert has warned that gardeners must follow (Image: Getty)
aims to remove branches or stems that no longer serve the plant due to them dying or being diseased.
It’s done throughout the year at different times depending on what , shrub or tree you have in the .
October is a great time to prune various foliage ahead of winter to help protect them.
However, an expert has said gardeners must follow a “rule” when pruning in order to do it properly.
Jamie Shipley, gardening expert and Managing Director of Hedges Direct, said: “When pruning deciduous trees, begin by looking for the three D’s: dead, damaged or diseased branches.
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“Using a pair of sharp loppers, cut off any material that is showing signs of the three D’s and any branches which are crossing over to limit damage to the wood when they rub against each other.
“Aim for a clean cut and look out for where a branch meets the trunk, leaving a collar of about three to five centimetres.”
Aiming for the three D’s when pruning helps to improve the overall appearance and aesthetic of a plant as well as the garden.
It also helps to banish any diseases which may overtake the plant.
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When to prune plants (Image: EXPRESS)
With the weather still warm enough, October is an ideal time to prune deciduous foliage so plants are less likely to incur damage from cold snaps.
Jamie explained: “An added benefit is you also don’t run the risk of disrupting nesting birds.
“When it comes to pruning deciduous shrubs, your aim should be to maintain their size and shape to stop them from overtaking your gardening or stealing light and nutrients from your other plants.
“They will only need a light trim in October to remove the fresh and unruly growth which appeared in late summer.”
As well as pruning plants in autumn, there are some plants which should never be pruned in October or gardeners run the risk of ruining next year’s flowers.
This includes rhododendrons, azaleas, lilacs and roses.
While roses can be deadheaded in October, and climbing roses can be pruned, other varieties should be left alone.
Make sure to prune at the correct time of the year or you may face a non-flowering garden.