Timing and techniques for shrubs, perennials, and trees in autumn
As the growing season winds down, fall often feels like the right time to tidy up the garden. But when it comes to pruning, timing is everything. Pruning too much—or too soon—can sometimes do more harm than good. Here’s a quick guide from Town & Country Nurseries to help you decide what to cut back now and what’s best left for spring.
Shrubs: Light Touch Only
Many shrubs benefit from a light shaping in fall, especially if branches are damaged or crossing. Focus on removing dead, diseased, or broken wood, but avoid heavy pruning—particularly on spring-flowering shrubs like lilacs, forsythia, or azaleas. These plants form buds on old wood, and pruning them now can reduce next spring’s blooms.
Instead, save major shaping for late spring or early summer after flowering has finished.
Perennials: Clean Up and Cut Back
Cut back perennials that have finished blooming, such as hostas, daylilies, and peonies, to reduce the chance of disease and keep the garden tidy. However, leave ornamental grasses and seed-bearing plants like coneflowers and black-eyed Susans standing—they add beauty and provide valuable food for birds throughout winter.
Trees: Focus on Safety and Structure
Fall is not the ideal time for heavy tree pruning, as cuts may not heal before winter. Instead, remove only dead or damaged branches that pose safety risks or could break under snow and ice. For more extensive shaping or thinning, wait until late winter or early spring, when trees are still dormant.
Timing Tips
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Prune only on dry days to prevent disease spread.
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Use clean, sharp tools for smooth cuts.
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Avoid pruning right before a hard freeze.
Quick Takeaway
Fall pruning should focus on maintaining plant health and safety—not reshaping the garden. A little selective trimming now keeps your landscape neat while protecting next season’s growth.
Visit Us:
Town & Country Nurseries
1036 Saybrook Road, Haddam, CT 06438
Phone: (860) 345-8581
Hours: Open Daily 9 AM – 5 PM
Stop in this fall for expert advice, quality tools, and everything you need to keep your garden thriving season after season.
