Winter Pruning Can Destroy Your Garden: Which Plants to Avoid in January.

According to ТСН: The winter period for the garden is not a reason to immediately grab the secateurs. British gardener Simon Id warns that hasty winter pruning can harm plants and worsen their condition in the near future. The expert explains which crops should not be pruned in January and what risks are associated with this.

Which Plants Should Be Pruned

Id notes that at this time, rejuvenation is allowed only for apple and pear trees. In contrast, winter pruning of stone-fruit trees such as plums, cherries, and peaches is dangerous. According to him, working with such crops in the frost can increase the risk of bacterial cancer and 'silver leaf' disease. These infections can not only slow down the growth of the plant but can also lead to its death. The best time for pruning stone-fruit trees is mid-summer when the weather is warm and dry.

Decorative Plants and Evergreen Shrubs

Decorative willows and cornels are also prohibited. Although they are often pruned in winter in public parks, Id notes that early cutting can weaken the plant and hinder its recovery. Similar risks concern most evergreen shrubs, which lack energy reserves unlike deciduous trees. Pruning in cold weather can rob them of strength for a spring start, and new shoots that appears during a thaw can die from later frosts.

Exceptions in Pruning

There are also exceptions such as Mahonia. If it has already finished flowering and looks untidy, it can be pruned now to stimulate bud formation for the next year. It is also important to avoid pruning roses: most of them bloom on last season's growth, so excessive winter cleaning can leave the garden without flowers.

Mediterranean Herbs

A separate category consists of Mediterranean herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and lavender. Although they may look scruffy in January, the expert emphasizes that any pruning in cold periods can lead to the wood freezing and the plant dying in spring.

The winter period is critical for proper garden care. Proper pruning planning will allow plants to strengthen and better prepare for spring flowering. Remember that each plant has its own characteristics, and these should be considered when pruning. A responsible approach to pruning will ensure a good harvest and a healthy garden in the upcoming seasons.