Most homeowners across the globe have some assortment of shrubbery. Whether it is a hedge, a rose bush, or an evergreen tree, plants need to be pruned in order to stay healthy. Today I'll be demonstrating the different techniques of pruning. Just like hairstyles, plants can be cut and trimmed to look their very best. A tidy shrub adds curb appeal and establishes order to your property. The best part about this activity is it requires little time and no specialty tools to complete. Simply grab a pair of sharp kitchen scissors or a pruning set and follow me outside! Before giving your shrub a "haircut", walk around and find the "Point of Interest" for your shrub. The "Point of Interest" is approximately 1-3 yards straight out in front of your shrub. You will refer to this "point" to help make sure you are cutting your shrub evenly. Start by choosing its shape. Is your shrub square or round? If your shrub is square, start by leveling the top and then level the sides evenly . If your shrub is round, start at the top and work your way down the side, over the top, then down the opposite side again, giving it a rounded shape. Do this evenly while referring to your Point of Interest often. Now, all shrubs are different. That being said you will not have to take off the same amount of foliage for every shrub. Some need a good hacking, while others just need a trim. Here are some before and after pictures for one of my round shrubs.
The first picture shows how grown-out and uneven the shrub was. The second picture was after 4 minutes of trimming. This shows just how EASY it is to improve your property with landscaping!
