Summer's here, and you're wondering when to prune your plants without damaging them? At Plantations Weisen, we often get this question at this time of year. Because while some pruning is not only possible but recommended, others should be avoided to avoid weakening the plants.
Let's take stock together.
What you can prune in summer
Plants to prune now
Contrary to popular belief, summer pruning can be beneficial, provided you choose the right plants and adapt your pruning methods. At the moment, you can consider the following types of pruning:
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Hedges (privet, laurel, hornbeam, etc.): maintenance pruning helps restore their neat shape.
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De-flowered perennials (perennial geraniums, sage, nepeta...): cutting them back often stimulates new flowering.
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Spring-flowering shrubs (forsythia, lilac, seringat...): after flowering, light pruning is appropriate.
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Stone fruit trees (cherry, plum, etc.): they are better suited to summer pruning than winter pruning.
However, be sure to intervene in dry weather, preferably in the morning or at the end of the day, to limit stress to the plants.
Gentle pruning: a respectful approach
At Plantations Weisen, we prefer gentle pruning, i.e. a measured intervention that respects the plant's natural structure. This method has several advantages:
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It promotes balanced regrowth.
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It reduces the risk of disease.
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It preserves natural refuges for garden wildlife.
What not to prune at the moment
Plants sensitive to summer pruning
Some plants should not be pruned in summer, as this may compromise their flowering or health. In this case, it's best to wait until autumn or late winter:
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Summer-flowering shrubs (roses, buddleias, lavatera...): pruning is best done at the end of winter.
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Conifers: they heal badly when pruned during hot weather.
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Deciduous trees (maples, hazelnuts, birches, etc.): pruning during the period of rising sap can cause significant weakening.
Severe pruning: a practice to be handled with care
Severe pruning should be the exception. In summer, it can be particularly harmful because :
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It weakens the plant at a time when it needs all its energy.
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It exposes the cuttings to the risk of disease, especially in wet conditions.
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It sometimes interferes with the following year's flowering.
Pruning too drastically is rarely beneficial. If in doubt, it's best to call in a professional.
Dorothée and Jordan, experts in sustainable pruning
At Plantations Weisen, pruning is entrusted to two experienced gardeners: Dorothée and Jordan. Their work is based on observation, patience and a perfect knowledge of plants. Their work is based on observation, patience and a perfect knowledge of the plants they work with. They intervene with confident gestures and a sharp eye, always respecting the natural rhythm of the plant and the specific requirements of each species.
Their approach is clear: intervene with precision, so that each pruning operation accompanies the plant rather than constraining it.
🫶🏻 Thanks to them for their passion for their craft.
Things to remember
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When to prune plants? Summer is a good time of year for certain species, as long as you know how to prune properly.
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We recommend gentle pruning that respects the plant's physiology.
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Some plants should not be pruned in summer, as this may compromise their health or flowering.
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Severe pruning should be avoided or left to a professional.
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At Plantations Weisen, we adapt every gesture to the needs of the garden... and those of its inhabitants.
Are you short of time or motivation to prune your plants?
Plantations Weisen will be happy to look after your garden. 👍
