While it might seem counterintuitive to trim plants when they appear dormant, winter pruning plays a crucial role in promoting overall plant health, controlling growth, and shaping the landscape. And given that seven million people have taken up gardening since the pandemic, many new to the hobby may not realise which plants need to be cut back during the colder months.

With that in mind, Josh Novell, garden expert and director of Polhill, has outlined which plants need pruning during the colder months and detailed the technique most suitable for each one.

Roses

In Britain, winter is the best season for rose pruning. To increase air circulation, start by removing any dead or diseased wood and trimming back any overlapping branches. Shrub roses benefit from a more organic, curving shape, whereas hybrid tea roses should be pruned into an open vase shape. Make an effort to establish a framework that promotes growth in the spring.

Pruning technique

  • Use sharp, clean pruning shears.
  • Cut at a 45-degree angle just above an outward-facing bud.
  • Remove any thin, weak, or crossing branches.

Fruit trees

To promote healthy development and optimise fruit output, pruning can be done in the winter on apple, pear, and other fruit trees. Pay special attention to trimming off any branches that are growing vertically or that are dead or congested. This promotes an open canopy, which lets light enter the tree from all angles.

Pruning technique:

  • Remove any branches that cross or rub against each other.
  • Cut just above a bud, leaving a slight angle to promote healing.
  • Remove any water sprouts (upright, vigorous shoots) arising from the main branches.

Evergreen shrubs

A modest winter pruning helps many evergreen shrubs keep their shape and promote new growth. Holly, yew, and boxwood are a few examples. Steer clear of severe pruning in the winter as it could harm the plant.

Pruning technique:

  • Trim back long, unruly branches to maintain a compact shape.
  • Remove any dead or yellowing foliage.
  • Shape the plant gradually, avoiding drastic cuts.

Perennials

To prepare for spring growth, certain perennial plants benefit from a winter trim to freshen up their appearance. Examples are late-blooming perennials like sedum and decorative grasses.

Pruning technique:

  • Cut back the stems to ground level for grasses.
  • Trim perennial stems to about 2-3 inches above the soil.
  • Remove any dead or diseased material.

Climbing plants

Winter trimming is a great opportunity to give climbing plants, like clematis, some TLC. Pruning aids in keeping them in form, regulates their size, and promotes heavy flowering in the upcoming seasons.

Pruning technique:

  • Identify the type of clematis (early-flowering or late-flowering) to determine the appropriate pruning method.
  • Remove dead or weak growth.
  • Cut back stems to a pair of healthy buds.

General tips for winter pruning

Use sharp tools: Clean, sharp pruning shears make cleaner cuts, promoting faster healing.

Prune on dry days: Wet conditions can spread diseases, so choose dry days for pruning.

Know your plants: Different plants require different pruning techniques, so familiarise yourself with the specific needs of each species.

Dispose of debris: Remove pruned material from the garden to prevent the spread of diseases.

Josh said: “In Britain, winter pruning is a useful technique that prepares a garden for springtime vibrancy and vigour. Gardeners can make sure their landscapes stay strong and durable in addition to being aesthetically beautiful by pruning plants such as climbing plants, evergreen shrubs, fruit trees, roses, and perennials. When you embrace the winter as a chance to tend to your plants, you'll be rewarded with a thriving garden come spring.”