Prune 2026

When to prune back lilac bushes is a question that almost every gardener asks eventually.   You should prune back lilac bushes immediately after they finish blooming in late spring, typically around May or June.   That timing is the golden rule because lilacs set their flower buds for next year right after the current … Read more

You should prune back hydrangea bushes in late winter or early spring, depending on the type you have, but that timing shifts dramatically if you’re dealing with an old wood bloomer.   Knowing when to prune back hydrangea bushes is the single most important factor in getting those big, beautiful blooms you’re after.   Prune … Read more

The best time to prune back lavender is in late summer, right after the plant finishes its main flowering flush.   This is the golden window when pruning back lavender encourages healthy, compact growth and prevents the woody, leggy base that lavender becomes prone to as it ages.   If you’ve been asking yourself when … Read more

The best time to prune back irises is in late summer to early fall, roughly four to six weeks after the blooms have completely faded.   This is when you should prune back irises to keep your garden neat and to prevent disease, but the exact timing really depends on the type of iris you … Read more

When to prune back hostas depends mostly on the time of year and the condition of the foliage.   You’ll typically want to prune back hostas in the late fall, after the first hard frost has hit and the leaves have turned brown and mushy.   That said, pruning back hostas in early spring is … Read more