5 plants gardeners ‘must’ prune in March for ‘improved flowering’ in spring and summer (Image: Getty)
is the gardener’s art of cutting back to improve their health, shape and productivity. It involves selectively removing plant parts, such as branches, buds or roots, to eliminate unwanted growth, encourage new development, and maintain or improve the plant’s structure. This task is essential for several reasons. First, it helps control the size and shape of plants, ensuring they fit well within their space.
It removes dead or diseased wood, reducing the risk of pests and diseases. It also promotes air circulation through the plant, decreasing the likelihood of fungal infections while stimulating and fruiting, leading to more abundant blooms and harvests. To help gardeners know what to prune this month, Jamie Shipley at Hedges Direct has shared three plants to prune, which he claims is a “must do” gardening job.
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When to prune your plants (Image: EXPRESS)
He said: “Pruning is a great way to keep your shrubs looking healthy come spring. March may be the last chance to get the job done before new growth begins, so it’s one thing to get ticked off your list.”
Before pruning any plant, remember to wear gloves and use sharp, clean pruning shears.
1. Summer flowering shrubs
These shrubs, including buddleja davidii, caryopteris, and hardy fuchsia, should be pruned between January and March when they are dormant to promote healthy growth in spring.
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Hardy fuchsia should be pruned between January and March (Image: Getty)
The leaves will have fallen from your shrub, making it easier to identify areas that need attention.
2. Winter-flowering deciduous shrubs
Prune winter-flowering shrubs, like Jasminum nudiflorum, after the flowers in early spring but before new buds begin to form.
Jamie claimed: “This will improve flowering in spring and summer and the following year.”
Prune winter-flowering shrubs, like jasminum nudiflorum (Image: Getty)
You can cut back the previous year’s growth to a few inches above the ground or prune selectively to remove damaged or unwanted branches. Avoid cutting into old wood, as this may reduce or eliminate flowering.
3. Evergreen shrubs
Although April is the best time to prune most evergreen shrubs, hardier plants like cherry laurel can be tackled in late winter if needed.
Just ensure the weather is mild and there are no signs of frost, as this could damage your plants.