Avoid pruning certain types of shrubs in February to prevent damage. Pruning shrubs in the winter risks cutting off buds or stressing dormant shrubs.

As stated in an earlier column, pruning plants in the home landscape depends on the species of plant not the season of the year for the best outcome. Some shrubs and trees start the spring with the ...

Q. I have gardenias rooted from cuttings. My problem is that the plants are putting on vigorous growth, and they are about 2 feet tall but have no blooms. I have vigorous oleanders, some 5 feet tall, ...

The elegant white blooms of gardenias (Gardenia jasminoides) make them a sought-after garden flower. But this shrub isn't the easiest one to grow. They need care and support throughout the seasons, ...

Question: I have a large gardenia bush that needs trimming. When is the best time to reduce the height and width? Answer: Major pruning for gardenia shrubs is usually after the spring bloom of around ...

Q: I have two gardenia bushes that became huge this summer and definitely need to be cut way back. Is now a good time to cut them back? I don’t want to shock them but they’re right up against our ...

Question: Our gardenia has grown a little taller then we would like and has finished flowering. Is now a good time to do the pruning? Answer: Often gardenias produce sporadic blooms during the summer ...

Q: I bought several angels trumpet plants this year. They have had several blooms and are 6 feet tall and are planted in a flower bed. Will they usually be winter hardy -- I live in south Arkansas? If ...

Fall pruning puts spring flowers at risk. Once October hits, you may notice some of your plants and shrubs look a little neglected now that the hot days of summer are behind you. While blowing or ...