Shrub Pruning in South Austin. What it is? Why do we do it?

Updated: 1/23/2018.

What is Shrub Pruning and Trimming?
Trimming and pruning are usually used interchangeably by industry professionals. It is because they are for the most part the same. The difference falls to how they are used on the field. Professionals classify trimming as removal of large sections of branches, while pruning becomes more associated with meticulous trimming of the canopy. Generally, when we say trimming or pruning, we normally cut back foliage, seal all wounds as needed (especially with Live Oaks), remove dead branches, and shape the shrub to match the landscape in South Austin.


When is the best time to prune shrubs in South Austin?
Pruning encourages future growth, and the best time to do this is in Fall and Winter when shrubs are generally dormant. This ensures the shrub remains compact before the growing season. 


Why do we do it?
We trim and prune shrubs as a form of correction for a variety of reasons. In general, trimming is performed to either maintain or cut back the size of a shrub. But it does not just end on that. Sometimes we prune to get a desired shape of the canopy. Other times we trim to encourage growth or decrease weight on certain locations of the shrub for health or safety reasons. There are also times the shrub's crown can be obstructing so much sunlight to the lawn or other smaller plants that it has to be raised. Whatever the case may be, it is important to have your shrubs checked at least once a year. Shaping the shrubs can be aesthetically pleasing as well.