The science of preserving nature since 1964
Ornamental Pruning
Ornamental trees and shrubs are primarily planted for aesthetic reasons. They provide an interesting focal point to a landscape and can sometimes even define the property. They are often planted in highly visible areas such as at the front of a house or building for curb appeal, or near a pool or patio to add to the overall look and beauty of the location. To keep them looking their best in bloom, ornamental trees and shrubs require expert and specially timed pruning.
Pruning of ornamental trees is usually focused on trying to maintain the tree’s size and aesthetic shape. For flowering trees, removing the current year’s old, faded flowers and fruit will promote more flower buds to grow the following season. Here are some other points to consider:
Shrub Pruning Cycle
Timing is crucial to proper pruning — especially for shrubs. Here’s our suggested shrub pruning cycle:
Early Spring
At this time, we prune away dead, broken and diseased branches and any winter damage. We also prune to shape each shrub tailored to its species and bloom cycle. If desired, we can prune perennials as well.
Shrubs (partial list): Crape Myrtle, Butterfly Bush, Daphne, Flowering Quince, Japanese Rose, Viburnum, Repeat Blooming Roses, Clethra, Witch Hazel.
Early Summer
We focus on reducing, thinning, shaping and rejuvenation pruning techniques after the first flush of spring growth and flowering of most common shrubs has passed. This is the most significant pruning cycle of the season. We can also prune perennials.
Shrubs (partial list): Lilac, Forsythia, Rhododendron, Mt. Laurel, Andromeda, Azalea, Deutzia, Climbing and Old Garden Roses.
Crape myrtle
Butterfly Bush
Flowering Quince
Witch Hazel
Lilac
Forsythia
Rhododendron
Deutzia
Summer
In late summer, we focus on reducing, and shaping the second flush of growth and removing dead, broken or diseased plant parts. We’ll also prune perennials, if desired.
Shrubs (partial list): Hydrangea, Gardenia, Marigold, Zinnia, Rose of Sharon, Crape Myrtle, Azalea, Angel's Trumpet.
Hydrangea
Gardenia
Rose of Sharon
Azalea
Fall
At this time, our focus is on reducing and shaping as required, removing dead, broken or diseased plant parts and restoration and rejuvenation pruning to prepare for winter and spring growth. We’ll perform perennial pruning as directed.
Shrubs: As needed to prepare for winter season.
LOCATIONS:
Lower Westchester County, NY and New York City
58 Beechwood Ave, New Rochelle, NY 10801
914-576-0193
Upper Westchester (North of I-287)
15 Broadway, Hawthorne, NY 10532
914-741-1510
Fairfield County, Connecticut
547 Hope Street, Stamford CT 06907
203-348-4111
Bergen & Passaic Counties, NJ
504 High Mountain Road, North Haledon, NJ 07508
973-636-6711
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