Pruning trees and shrubs in May: What to prune and what to avoid

May is a month when garden activity is focused more on the flower beds than anywhere else. When it comes to pruning trees and shrubs, it’s a borderline month. It’s often no longer worth touching shrubs and trees at all. Many of us think that if we’re already trimming something, we might as well prune it. But this is often harmful and can doom a specific plant to death. Incorrect and inappropriate pruning leads to a loss of energy in the plant, as well as weak flowering and poor fruit quality. So what can still be pruned in May, and what shouldn’t be? We’ll tell you in the following paragraphs.

For some trees and shrubs, May pruning makes sense

That’s right. In May, it’s traditional to prune or trim branches that are dry or damaged by frost. If mechanical damage is also visible on them, they can be removed at this time as well. Such branches won’t do the plant any good anyway; they only weaken it.

What specifically is pruned and cut in May?

Traditionally, these are shrubs after flowering. To be specific, the following are pruned and cut:

– forsythia,

– lilacs,

– spiraea,

– ornamental currants

– and others.

Ideally, these plants should be pruned immediately after flowering and thoroughly thinned out so they thrive in the following season. Hedges can, of course, also be lightly trimmed. For hedges, however, this is typically a year-round task.

Photo: Radek Stepan

For many trees and shrubs, pruning in May no longer makes sense

In May, plants transport nutrients throughout their parts. Unfortunately, plants react more slowly to pruning and also lose a significant amount of energy quickly. Of course, we don’t want that.

What specifically should not be pruned or cut in May?

Generally, you should no longer touch any fruit trees. These include primarily:

– apple trees,

– pear trees,

– cherry trees,

– plum trees

These trees must be pruned much earlier. Otherwise, they would bleed heavily, and we would ultimately rob them of a great deal of energy that goes into the flowers and then into the fruit.

How to prune correctly?

The most important thing is to use the sharpest possible tool. The cut must be as clean as possible. Beware of hasty spring pruning with a saw, which tends to cause more damage than good.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About May Pruning of Shrubs and Trees

Which plants can still be pruned now?

Primarily those that have finished blooming, such as forsythia.

Which plants should definitely not be pruned?

Fruit trees should definitely not be pruned in May.

What should you watch out for when pruning?

Mainly sharp tools.

Sources: Author, Meta

Photo: Radek Stepan