Pruning Desert Shrubs
Evergreens and deciduous shrubs
Shrubs need to be thinned occasionally (sometimes annually), renewed through pruning and at times, rejuvenated. Evergreens and deciduous shrubs that are grown for their foliage, should be pruned in late winter before new growth begins. However, minor pruning can be done anytime.
Thinning Shrubs
Cut off the branch or twig either where it begins at the parent stem or a lateral branch, at ground level, or the “y’ of a branch junction. This will leave a more open plan, allowing sunlight to reach the plant. You won’t get much new growth from the area you thinned, but you will create room for side branches to grow.
Don’t be shy. You can cut a lot of growth without hurting the plant’s appearance or growth.
You can keep a shrub at a certain height and width for years by simply thinning it. Hand shears or hand pruners are best for this. You can also use a lopper or even a hand saw. Don’t use hedge shears however. And, remember to disinfect your pruners when you move from shrub to shrub.
Gradual Renewal of Shrubs
Here, you remove the oldest and tallest branches of a plant every year. Remove them at ground level or a little above ground level. You may also want to do some thinning at this time also to keep the plant’s shape.
Shrub Rejuvenation
This is simple and is usually done to old, overgrown shrubs. Just remove one-third of the oldest, tallest branches at ground level. Do this before new growth begins.
Some people like to shape evergreens, shearing them for a “formal” appearance. This is not a recommended practice in desert plants (or actually in any plants). If you do “shear” however, remember that these plants also need to be thinned occasionally as well.
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