Keyword: Pruning trees

Winter is a good time to prune because the branch structure of trees and shrubs is clearly visible. Winter is certainly not the only time for pruning, but the list of competing garden chores is typically shorter in winter. Here are a few websites to check out before pulling out the pruning saw:

• Washington State University, Mt. Vernon – a primer on pruning fruit trees
• http://www.homeorchardsociety.org/growfruit/trees/how-to-prune-fruit-trees/ – five principles for pruning fruit trees
• Plant Amnesty on pruning hybrid tea roses
• Plant Amnesty on general pruning
• Pacific Northwest chapter, International Society of Arboriculture – why and how to hire an arborist
• Virginia Cooperative Extension – basic pruning shrub guide with illustrations.

By Thanksgiving most leaves have fallen off deciduous trees. Some people feel a strong desire or obligation to prune when they see these naked trees. If you’re one of these people remember that most trees and shrubs don’t require regular pruning, other than to remove dead, dying or diseased branches. However, if some correction or thinning is necessary arm yourself with one of the excellent pruning books:

• Cass Turnbull’s Guide to Pruning: What, When, Where & How to Prune for a More Beautiful Garden (Sasquatch, $17.95) – Turnbull demystifies pruning with humor and helpful diagrams.
• The Pruning of Trees, Shrubs and Conifers by George Brown (Timber, $29.95) – This classic reference work has been revised and enlarged by Tony Kirkham to reflect recent advancements in pruning; it includes a plant by plant guide to special considerations.
• An Illustrated Guide to Pruning by Edward Gilman (Delmar, $26.25) – A text book for professionals or serious gardeners, this book includes information on training young trees and has many illustrations.