cutting and pruning

[ray316]

when is it the best time to cut back on shrubs and why.Also the same question on cutting the lawn.

 

[2scoops0406]

Generally, autumn / early spring.

 

[Hightowermark]

If your lawn was last cut Autumn time and now is 3" or more it's due a cut, but put it on your highest setting.

 

[ratm]

I note they didn't tell you why? Generally pruning is done in Autumn/early Spring because the wood is less sappy or dormant so it's less likely to bleed. Some woody plants can literally bleed to death if you prune them when they're growing. And the weather is too cold in winter.

 

[Thermo]

all depends on what the shrubs are, some are best cut during these times, some best after they flower etc etc.

if you know what shrubs youve got have a look here and it gives pruning advice

http://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/index.asp

 

[2scoops0406]

all depends on what the shrubs are, some are best cut during these times, some best after they flower etc etc.

if you know what shrubs youve got have a look here and it gives pruning advice

http://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/index.asp[/QUOTE]

True, my answer was tempered by a generally though

 

[Thermo]

not knocking your reply eddie, its a good rule of thumb, and many people get a little over complicated with pruning etc!

 

[2scoops0406]

Yeah, did you know the RHS did a trial regarding pruning roses, and found the bst way to do it was with a hedge trimmer!!

 

[Thermo]

yep, nature has a way of overcoming things!

 

[Aardvaak]

I have a Budlia (not sure of correct spelling) which has grown quiet tall as it has'nt been cut for many years. It does not produce much flower.

Is this because it has not been pruned/cut back?

Can I cut it down low - would it recover such a shock?

When can I do it?

 

[2scoops0406]

I have a Budlia (not sure of correct spelling) which has grown quiet tall as it has'nt been cut for many years. It does not produce much flower.

Is this because it has not been pruned/cut back?

Can I cut it down low - would it recover such a shock?

When can I do it?

Yep, now, cut it back hard.

 

[dg123]

I have a Budlia (not sure of correct spelling) which has grown quiet tall as it has'nt been cut for many years. It does not produce much flower.

Is this because it has not been pruned/cut back?

Can I cut it down low - would it recover such a shock?

When can I do it?

Buddleja (not being picky just showing spelling) is amazing for new growth. Now is the time to cut it, it will recover from just about anything you do to it except oull its roots out!

 

[Aardvaak]

Many thanks for your reply and thanks for the correct spelling.

I'm not touching the roots so I'll have a go.