As February unfolds, deciduous trees stand in a state of dormancy, making it an opportune time for pruning. With leaves shed and the tree's energy directed inward, removing dead or diseased branches promotes overall health. Pay attention to the tree's structure, thinning crowded areas to enhance air circulation. While major shaping is best left for late winter or early spring, minor adjustments now can contribute to a flourishing canopy come spring.
February whispers of impending spring, tempting gardeners to take shears to their spring-flowering shrubs. However, exercise restraint. Plants like lilacs and forsythias have already set their buds for the season. Pruning now would mean sacrificing those beautiful blossoms. Instead, wait until after the blooms have faded to shape and tidy up these shrubs. Patience in pruning pays off in a vibrant display of nature's craftsmanship.
Evergreens, clad in their winter greenery, should be approached with caution during February. While light pruning to shape and remove dead growth is acceptable, heavy pruning is best postponed. These stoic sentinels are actively photosynthesizing even in winter, and a severe cut may disrupt their delicate balance. Save major pruning for spring when new growth is on the horizon, and the evergreens are better equipped to recover.
Fruit trees, having shed their leaves in preparation for the cold, beckon for attention in February. Remove any branches that appear damaged or diseased, creating a clean slate for the upcoming growing season. Additionally, thinning the canopy by selectively pruning crowded branches encourages sunlight penetration and better fruit production. Approach fruit tree pruning strategically, considering the tree's shape and maximizing
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