Pruning Shrubs in the Low and Mid-Elevation Deserts in Arizona

BKStevens

Pruning is the intentional removal of parts of a plant. Pruning needs of shrubs commonly planted in the low and mid-elevation deserts in Arizona vary from no pruning to regular seasonal pruning. Requirements vary by plant species, design intent, and placement in a landscape. Fast growing shrubs generally need frequent pruning from the time of establishment until maturity, while slow growing shrubs require little to none. Pruning should only be done when necessary and at the right time of year. Using the natural growth form of a shrub is a good guide for pruning. Shearing shrubs should be avoided except for maintenance of formal hedges or plant sculptures. All pruning should be done with sharp hand pruners or, for thicker stems, loppers.

For more information concerning pruning shrubs please follow the link below and also look under the "videos" tab for a short video on the why's of pruning with Dr. Ursula Schuch.

http://cals.arizona.edu/extension/ornamentalhort/landscapemgmt/prunning/pruningshrubs.pdf