Why Prune Shrubs in Summer?
Pruning early-summer flowering shrubs like Deutzia ensures healthy growth, better flowering in the next season, and maintains the plant’s shape and size.
Key Points for Summer Shrub Pruning
- Timing is Key
- Prune immediately after flowering.
- This allows the plant to develop new growth for next year’s flowers.
- What to Remove?
- Cut back spent flower stems.
- Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches.
- Thin out crowded or crossing stems to improve airflow.
- How Much to Prune?
- Trim stems back to a healthy, outward-facing bud.
- Avoid over-pruning to prevent stress on the plant.
- Maintain the Shape
- Shape the shrub by selectively cutting stems to keep its natural form.
- Encourage New Growth
- For older shrubs, remove 1–3 of the oldest stems at the base to rejuvenate the plant.
Benefits of Summer Shrub Pruning
- Promotes stronger, healthier growth.
- Enhances the shrub’s shape and appearance.
- Improves flowering potential for the next season.
Tools You’ll Need
- Sharp pruning shears or secateurs.
- Gloves for protection.
- Optional: Long-handled loppers for larger stems.