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Winter Shrub Pruning: Timing and Exceptions

Winter is a fine time to prune most shrubs. Plants are entering deep dormancy, so cutting now won't harm them. However, avoid pruning spring-blooming shrubs (like azaleas, forsythia) and mophead hydrangeas, as you'll remove the flower buds they set last year.

For everything else, grab your jacket and pruners. The bare branches make structure easy to see.

About Gardening: Pruning Knockout Roses in Wisconsin: Timing and Technique; Heeling In Sale Shrubs for Winter on Long Island; Best Methods for Removing Large, Established Shrubs; Transplanting Established Viburnum and Hydrangea: Timing and Technique; Pruning Evergreen Shrubs in Zone 5: New Growth Timing for Shape and Size Control; First Pruning of a Young Avocado Tree; How to Prune Barberry Shrubs: Timing, Techniques & Tools; When to Prune Hydrangeas: Complete Guide by Variety; Choosing and Planting Loropetalum Shrubs; When to Prune Lantana in Winter: Patience Pays Off

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