The selective removal of branches, shoots, or buds to shape plants, improve health, remove dead wood, increase flowering or fruiting, or manage size.
In plain terms
Pruning shapes plants, removes dead or diseased wood, improves light penetration, encourages branching, and controls size. Done correctly, it improves plant health and appearance. Done wrong (topping, removing too much), it weakens plants and invites disease. Timing matters: most woody plants prune best in late winter or early spring.
Why this matters
Good pruning technique maintains healthy, productive, beautiful plants. Understanding why and when to prune prevents common mistakes.
In practice
Examples
Shrub pruned in late winter to remove crossing branches and dead wood; healthier, more attractive.
Tree pruned to raise canopy (remove lower branches); restores light below while keeping shade above.
Fruit tree pruned annually; maintains shape, improves light penetration, maintains productivity.
Rose pruned in spring; removes deadwood, shapes plant, encourages vigorous flowering growth.
Practical applications
Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches first.
Thin to improve light penetration and air circulation.
Cut just above a bud or branch collar (the thickened area where branch meets trunk).
Avoid topping (cutting at random height); it's harmful and creates weak regrowth.
Prune to shape, not brutally; plants respond better to gradual pruning.