5 Rules for Pruning Spring-Flowering Shrubs

Prune right after flowering ends Spring-blooming shrubs like lilacs and azaleas set next year’s buds soon after blooming. Pruning in summer or fall removes those buds.

For lilacs, remove dead wood and suckers Cut out dead branches and any shoots from the base. Thin the oldest, thickest stems at ground level to keep the plant open.

Deadheading lilacs is optional Removing spent flower clusters is not critical. Focus on removing whole stems rather than shortening everything.

For azaleas, snip dead flowers and shape now Azaleas are forgiving. Remove dead or crossed branches, and shape immediately if needed. They also bloom on old wood.

Never prune spring-bloomers in fall Fall pruning is for summer-bloomers like butterfly bush. Spring-bloomers need their haircut right after the flowers fade.