Reasons for Pruning

There are a number of reasons why we need to prune; to restrict a plant that is outgrowing the space given to it; to remove dead, diseased or damaged sections; to stimulate young growth; to encourage the flowering or fruiting of weak plants and to restore health and vigour to neglected ones. Pruning may also be undertaken to improve the shape of shrubs, hedges and trees.

Pruning may be divided into three categories: renovative, regenerative and formative.