The importance of pruning in caring for a garden cannot be underestimated. In fact, no plant in a garden can fulfill its role without proper pruning. As a gardener prunes, he or she must remember:

–In pruning, the first commandment is: “Do no harm”. Since pruned branches can’t be put back, it is better not to prune without first understanding the where, when, and why of pruning.

It is very important to proceed carefully and slowly, using quality hand tools rather than shears. Hand pruning takes time compared to a quick pass-over with shears. Though time-consuming, hand pruning allows a gardener time to assess and be intentional about the cuts that are made. With shears, the pruner is much more likely to make unintentional, regrettable cuts.

Shared by James Hanselman

Gardener and experienced pruner