A Time for Pruning
By Jean Golicz, Master Gardener and Mercy by the Sea Volunteer
Posted on
Spirit
After a quiet winter season and before the riotous explosion of spring growth, there is a time for pruning. When storm debris is removed, the skeletal structure of the garden becomes starkly evident. Now it is time to eliminate, on trees, shrubs and woody plants, that which is diseased and damaged.
Pruning should be done at an angle rather than straight across; it’s less severe. Deliberate reflection leads to detailed observation and decisive action. With a carefully placed cut, new growth will emerge. After all, it is the spiritual season for just such a disciplined practice.
Soil
1. Remove debris and cut down grasses and any perennials you left standing in the fall.
2. Assess damage such as winter scorch (when pine needles and leaves turn brown for lack of water) and look for evidence of pests.
3. Cut at a 45-degree angle, with the lowest point directly above the bud and the highest point about a quarter of an inch higher.
These are the plants that can be pruned in the spring:
- Nonflowering deciduous shrubs, such as winterberry or choke berry
- Shade trees, such as maples and oaks
- Summer flowering shrubs, such as Rose of Sharon
Once a month, the volunteer gardeners at Mercy Center will share lessons learned, both spiritual and practical. Look for these reflections on spirit and soil. Perhaps you might even consider joining them for a chat in the garden and a cup of tea. If interested, please contact Ann McGovern, RSM, at 203.245.0401, ext. 111.
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