Pruning It is one of the essential care requirements for the proper development of all types of plants, from fruit trees to rose bushes or ornamental shrubs. Although pruning is traditionally associated with the colder months, such as autumn and winter, prune in summer It can provide significant benefits to certain species and is essential in the life cycle of many plants. We explain in detail which species can be pruned in summer, the advantages it offers, how to do it correctly, and when it's best to prune, so your garden looks healthy and in perfect balance throughout the summer season.
Why prune in summer? General benefits
Pruning in summer is a task that is carried out to strengthen, heal and control growth of many plants. Although not all species tolerate cutting well at this time, There are numerous varieties that benefit greatly from proper summer pruning.The main objective of this work is:
- Control the size and shape of the plant, essential in fast-growing species or those that can become invasive.
- Promote the production of fruits and flowers In certain plants, stimulating second flowering or the development of new shoots.
- Prevent diseases and pests, since cutting damaged branches improves ventilation and the entry of light into the canopy, making it difficult for fungi and bacteria to proliferate.
- Remove dangerous or diseased branches, improving the safety and overall appearance of the plant.
- Allow rapid healing thanks to the high temperatures, which accelerate the closure of wounds and reduce the risk of infection.
La summer pruning It also acts as a maintenance intervention, regulating the shape, removing wilted flowers and leaves and giving an additional boost to regrowth and second flowering in species such as roses, lavender or camellias.
Specific advantages of summer pruning in fruit trees and other species
In fruit trees, pruning in summer has several additional advantages over pruning in winter:
- Sap redistribution: By removing poorly formed, weak or competing branches, the plant's energy is concentrated on developing the most promising fruits and shoots.
- Improving foliage lighting and aeration: Fruits ripen with more sun and quality, and there is less risk of fungal diseases.
- Rapid wound repair: High temperatures accelerate the healing of cuts, which reduces the entry of pathogens.
- Increased harvest quality: The fruits are tastier, larger and easier to harvest, and the main branches are strengthened by reducing unnecessary weight.
Furthermore, the summer pruning of fruit trees It allows growth to be controlled (especially in alternating species that produce a lot one year and little the next), prevents the development of suckers and directs growth for the next season.
Not only fruit trees benefit from this technique. It is recommended for Prune in summer species that can be trimmed such as roses, hydrangeas, camellias, mimosas, shrubs and vines, although always with light and maintenance interventions that do not compromise the vitality of the species.
When is it best to prune in summer and types of summer pruning?
The ideal time to prune in summer depends on the species and the desired objective. In general:
- Early summer pruning: This is done when new shoots are developed and fruits have barely begun to form. It is usually done between late spring and early summer.
- Late summer pruningPruning: This is done once the fruit has ripened and the plant has completed its annual growth cycle. This type of pruning is lighter and aims to improve the plant's health for the next season.
Avoid pruning on the hottest days or during the central hours. It's recommended to do this early in the morning or at dusk, when temperatures are milder and the plant suffers less water stress.
For fruit trees, summer pruning is usually done between mid-July and September, after harvesting or when the crop is assured. Remember that Not all species accept pruning equally well.: Always consult the specific variety before acting.
Which species can be pruned in summer: detailed list
The list of species that admit and appreciate the summer pruning is broad, although we must distinguish between maintenance pruning y formation pruning or intense, which should be reserved for the dormant months. These include:
- Fruit trees: Apple, pear, plum, peach, apricot, cherry, orange, and other citrus trees. Remove weak, dry, or suckering branches and regulate the weight of the productive branches.
- Rose bushes: Trim faded flowers, weak shoots, and crossed or overly long branches. This encourages a second bloom and rejuvenates the plant.
- Hydrangeas: After flowering, remove wilted inflorescences and weak branches. Prune old stems only if the hydrangea blooms on new wood.
- Camellias and mimosas: Trim lightly after flowering to maintain shape and health.
- aromatic plants: Lavender, sage, rosemary, lavender, thyme… Remove wilted spikes and trim the stems slightly to maintain their compact shape and encourage more shoots.
- Ornamental shrubs: laurel, boxwood, oleander (every 2-3 years), viburnum, mahonia, celinda, kerria, orsitias...
- Vines: Wisteria, ivy, jasmine, bougainvillea, honeysuckle… Prune lightly to remove dry branches, withered flowers, and trim parts that invade unwanted areas.
- Palms: Remove dry leaves and withered fruit carefully to avoid pests.
- Evergreen hedges and shrubs: Make small training cuts to maintain its shape and stimulate regrowth.
Avoid pruning During the summer, in species with very tender new growth, or in those that store reserves for the following flowering period (such as spring-flowering shrubs just after the flower cycle). Always check the plant's biology before proceeding.
How to Prune in Summer: Techniques, Tools, and Best Practices
- Always make clean and precise cuts, using sharp, high-quality tools. This promotes rapid healing and reduces the risk of disease entry.
- Disinfect the tools before moving from one floor to another, especially if you suspect someone is sick. Use alcohol or specific products to prevent infection.
- Prune during the cool hours of the day., never at midday or at high temperatures, to minimize water stress on the plant.
- Water the plant well one or two days before pruning to ensure it has sufficient moisture and regains its vigor after cutting. After pruning, check that the substrate retains some moisture, but does not flood it.
- Avoid drastic pruning At this time, limit yourself to removing dead branches, withered flowers, unwanted shoots, and maintaining the shape. Deep or formative pruning should be left for the dormant period.
- Do not prune stressed plants due to heat, drought, or illness. Wait for them to recover before intervening.
- Use protective equipment such as gloves and glasses, especially on plants with thorns or stiff branches.
- Clean up pruning debris from the garden to prevent the spread of pests and fungi. Plant remains can be used in compost if they are healthy.
- In larger diameter cuts, consider the use of specific healing agents to protect the wound from the entry of parasites.
Key tools for effective summer pruning
- Pruning shears: Ideal for small branches, tender shoots, and wilted flowers. Make sure to keep them very sharp and clean.
- Long-handled pruning shears: perfect for accessing medium branches without the need for ladders.
- Pruning saw or bow saw: for thicker branches. Essential if you have fruit trees or older shrubs.
- Gardening gloves: protect hands from thorns, cuts and abrasions.
- Mooring tape: to guide new branches on shrubs and fruit trees.
- Healing seal (optional): For large cuts, reduces the risk of infection.
Post-pruning care and management of plant debris
After pruning, it is important to:
- Observe the development of the plant: Monitor for signs of stress, pests, or disease and act immediately if you detect a problem.
- Moderate wateringWatering after pruning helps with recovery, but avoid overwatering the substrate. Excess water can encourage the growth of fungus.
- Fertilize wisely: A light application of organic fertilizer can help the plant to sprout vigorously.
- Waste managementPruning waste can be composted if it's disease-free. If you've removed branches with pests or fungus, dispose of them in specific containers or arrange for collection by specialized companies to prevent the spread of problems to the rest of the garden.
Risks and precautions when pruning in summer
Pruning in summer has many advantages, but it also carries some risks if the necessary precautions are not taken:
- Not all plants respond positively: Always check the biology and cycle of each species before cutting.
- Excessive cutting weakens the plant: limit pruning to what is strictly necessary.
- Extreme heat and drought can slow healing or dehydrate the plant. Prune lightly and monitor soil moisture.
- Do not prune if there are symptoms of disease or severe stress: first restore the health of the specimen.
La pruning in summer It's a practice that, when properly executed and planned, can transform your garden, multiply its health and beauty, and facilitate the production of quality flowers and fruit. Remember to prioritize the plant's well-being, use appropriate tools, and maintain constant monitoring after each intervention. With these tips, your plants will be able to face the summer heat and growth with renewed vigor and vitality.
