Shrubs may require more trimming than actual trees in order to remain healthy and attractive. Knowing when they need to be trimmed along with some of the basic techniques can ensure you schedule trimming services when needed.

1. Winter Cleanup 

The pruning season for most evergreen shrubs begins in late winter, right before the time of new growth begins. This is when the heaviest pruning is typically completed, for both shaping and removing any winter-damaged wood. Evergreens that are left mainly to their natural shape may not need much pruning other than to remove a few overgrown branches and any deadwood. Formal shrubs, such as privet, require more involved trimming to maintain their desired shape. Cuts are typically limited to about a third of the branch's length, as cutting back too deeply results in bare wood that won't leaf out again.

2. Post Flower Care

Flowering evergreens, such as laurels and camellias, may require their heaviest pruning after the flowering season instead of in late winter. These shrubs are only pruned lightly to remove damage in winter so that the flower buds aren't removed. After flowering heavier pruning can be done, both to remove the old faded blooms for aesthetic purposes and to shape the plant as desired. No branches are cut back to bare wood unless the intention is to remove the entire branch, as cutting back too far will lead to dead patches within the shrub.

3. Ongoing Shaping

Formal hedges that have been shaped heavily may require monthly pruning from spring through early summer in order to keep their lovely shape. Generally, these trims are done quite lightly, with just enough trimmed back to keep the shape. Recovery pruning may also be done at any time, such as if damaged or dead wood needs to be removed and the shape of the shrub adjusted to amend for the damage. 

4. Winter Protection

Mid-fall is when most shrub trimming should stop, as pruning can encourage new growth that will be damaged by the coming winter cold. The only exception is if there are any damaged or dead branches, as these can be trimmed out at any time. Evergreen shrubs may also need to be protected from cold, drying winter winds. After trimming out any dead wood, the shrubs may be wrapped in a special tree wrap or burlap to protect them. These wraps must be removed before new growth resumes in late winter and early spring. 

If you need help with your landscape maintenance, get in touch with a company like A Woman's Touch Tree Care LLC.