Do you have any unruly shrubs in front of your business or home that need some maintenance? Did you know that pruning and trimming your shrubs actually encourages healthier, more full growth? Shrub trimming is a simple process with long-lasting results. It’s amazing how cutting back a few branches can set you up for copious blossoms next season. Maybe looking-into shrub trimming is your next step in upgrading your landscape. 

Pruning shrubs involves a cycle of thinning-out, gradual renewal, and rejuvenation pruning. Each of these methods serves a different purpose, but brings your plants closer to a thriving, natural form. 

The thinning-out procedure of pruning results in a more open plant, allowing for more sunlight and air circulation to the plant’s interior branches. It does not stimulate excessive growth, but instead allows space for side branches to grow without overcrowding. Shrubs can maintain the same shape and size for years through the process of thinning-out. It also does not impact the natural shape of the shrub or its growth pattern. Be diligent to prune the oldest and tallest stems of the shrub first. It is best to use hand pruning shears, loppers, or a saw – but not hedge shears.
In gradual-renewal pruning, the oldest and longest branches of the shrubs are removed from at or just above ground level each year. Some thinning-out may also be necessary to help maintain the symmetry of the shrub or shorten branches that have grown too long. 

With rejuvenation pruning, one third of the shrub is removed. The tallest and oldest branches are removed from at or slightly above ground level. This sets the foundation for new growth to begin from the ground-up.

If your shrub is flowering, time your pruning so that it does not disrupt blooming. It is best to prune these types of shrubs just after they bloom to ensure more full, flowering blooms for the next season. There are all kinds of resources available that can give you more specific pruning instructions for your species of shrub. Some are best pruned just before blooming season, some are best pruned just after. 

Another great way to ensure that your shrubs are taken care of with expert maintenance is to call in a professional arborist. We here at Dynamic Arborist have a highly-skilled and qualified team that can meet your shrub trimming needs. We have served the South Eastern Melbourne area for years, and would be honoured to call you our client. Feel free to reach out with any inquiries!