Pruning improves plant health, encourages new blooms, and manages the plant’s size. Gardeners should follow the 3Ds when pruning and make sure they prune at the correct time of year.
This depends on which plant you are working with, as this will determine when it needs to be pruned. In August, gardening experts have recommended pruning three plants: wisteria, lavender, and rambling roses.
Three plants to prune in August
Wisteria
Wisteria needs regular pruning to keep its “vigorous growth” and size under control, as well as improve the flowering display.
August is a great time to prune wisteria, according to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).
After flowering, cut back the whippy green shoots of the current year’s growth to five or six leaves. The experts said: “The removal of growth allows for better air circulation and more sunlight to reach the base of the young growths.
“It also encourages better ripening of the wood and improves the chances of flower bud formation.”
Lavender
The best time to prune lavender is typically in August, immediately after the flowering period has finished.
This timing allows the plant to heal and harden off new growth before the frost arrives, ensuring healthy flowering the following year.
Rambling roses
August is a great time to prune rambling roses, as long as they have finished flowering.
This timing allows for the removal of spent flowering stems and promotes new growth for the following season. If you need to, also tie in new shoots to supports, aiming for an even shape.
Major renovations would be done in late autumn or winter, though, when the plant is dormant.
Other plants that can be pruned in August include certain fruit trees like plums and cherries.
