Q: I seem to recall that you have recently given advise on how to trim bushes to keep them looking full instead of like “horses tails”. If I’m mistaken about the article, I would appreciate any advise you have regarding the trimming.
A: There are a couple ways to trim bushes. Partly this depends on the function of the plant. Some shrubs are pruned to hedge shapes and others are designed to stand alone or in groups. The healthiest method for pruning is called selective pruning. This method involves selecting branches to prune that thin out the plant to allow for air, water, and sunlight to reach the inner parts while still maintaining the size of the plant. We typically want to remove any dead, damaged, and crossing branches to keep the plant in good health and good appearance. Good pruning cuts are also important to the health of the plant. This means using a sharp tool and cutting close to connecting branches. There is a publication that explains this in greater detail. Google AZ1499-2016.pdf to find this publication on the Internet.
Peter L. Warren is the urban horticulture agent for the Pima County Cooperative Extension and the University of Arizona. Email questions and photos to tucsongardensage@gmail.com
