When to Prune Trees and Shrubs The type of plant determines when to prune. Deciduous trees may be best to trim in early spring when it doesn't have leaves on it so the branches are easier to see. Fruit trees should be trimmed in the first couple of months of the year when they are dormant. Shrubs should be pruned from the start. When you are planting the shrub, be sure to trim off any dead branches. This will allow for better plant growth, resulting in a stronger shrubbery plant. Roses Flowering trees, flowering shrubs, and heirloom roses that bloom in early spring generally should be pruned after they have finished blooming, however, those that bloom in the summer or fall should be done in their dormant season. Other roses should be pruned right before new growth emerges. This depends on the climate zone, but is often in early spring. Check with your local greenhouse or garden center for the best pruning time for your area. Berry Bushes Remove any branches that appear to be "dead" or any really thin or really short branches in late winter or early spring. Removing any dead or diseased stems should be done throughout the growing season, however. Trimming any diseased parts should be done when planting cuttings in the spring. Tomato Plants For tomato plants, remove suckers along the stem when they appear to be too numerous. Suckers will often appear in abundance in mid summer, especially during the heat of the summer.
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