How to Have Perfectly Trimmed Shrubs

Shrubs can be the backbone of your landscaping, and keeping them trimmed can enhance the beauty of the entire garden, as well as show off your prized flowers. Perfectly trimmed shrubs, however, are a matter of preference. Your garden should be your own personal expression, not necessarily like anyone else's. Of course, your shrubs should be kept neat and free of dead or damaged branches, but some of the most beautiful shrubs are allowed to drape over borders and creep to other areas of the garden.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pruning shears
• Wood stakes
• String
• Line level

1. Trim shrubs that flower within the first month after they have finished blooming or in very early spring before they start to bloom.

2. Cut off long stems that have grown out of place. Shape the shrub in a way that will complement your landscape. Some people like them round, while others don't want a particular shape.

3. Cut off any branches that are rubbing up against your house. If you have planted shrubs along the house, have at least a foot between the shrubs and the house.

4. Cut off any dead or damaged branches and pull off all yellow leaves. Trim off any old branches at the base of the shrub. You can identify these branches by their woody look and the lack of new leaf production.

5. Trim hedges by placing stakes at each end and on both sides. Run string between the stakes at the height and width you want the hedges to be. Use a line level to make sure the top will be cut straight across. Cut off any branches outside the string. This will give you a perfect box-shaped hedge.

Tips & Warnings

• Remove all cuttings from the area and discard. Leaving them around the healthy shrubs can cause the spread of disease.

References

• When to Trim Shrubs