What Is Selective Pruning?
The process of selecting individual branches to be pruned,
rather than shearing non-selectively.
The most widely recommended technique for pruning is selective pruning.
Unfortunately, this is not the most widely practiced method. Selective
pruning is easy to do and can reduce the frequency at which shrubs are
pruned. Plants that are selectively pruned require less maintenance which
can result in significant cost savings.
Selective pruning is primarily the removal of foliage and stems so that
the plant is returned to its natural shape. Using this method will allow
plants to bloom to their full potential creating colorful, lush, interesting
landscapes.
Selective pruning maintains the natural shape of the plant. Selectively
pruned plants soften the man-made structures and will enhance and embellish
the setting. Selective pruning allows sunlight and air movement throughout
the plants. This is important to reduce the occurrence of diseases and
insects.
Shrubs and Groundcover Pruning
|
|
 |
|
NO |
YES |
Costly over pruning once per month
|
Pruning of shrubs to maintain a full, natural shape and flowering once per year |
| Square Cut-off pruning at edges | Trimmed at an angle along edges |
 |
|
NO |
YES |
| Each individual groundcover is pruned separately which is time consuming and wasteful. Lack of trimming top of groundcovers makes plants appear as small shrubs. Square pruning at edges at sidewalk/curbs forces the necessity for frequent trimming to keep plants off of sidewalk/curbs | Less trimming by allowing plants to grow together only top trimming and angle trimming at edges required |
Selective pruning is typically done after the flowering season. Using this simple technique, plants are returned to an informal, rounded form or a desired size. Then every other branch is cut back to the first large “V”, or side branch, usually removing a piece about 6 – 9 inches long. This results in an informal, natural look and opens up the interior to sunlight, helping to develop new flowering wood.
Step #1 - Use hand pruners to cut branches and stems to buds or laterals creating an informal rounded shape.
Step #2 - Cut every other branch to a lateral, varying the length of branches to create a natural form.
Water Conservation Office