With all the leaves off the trees and the perennial plants looking shabby under the snow, you may be tempted to do some trimming now. Stop. Put the pruners down and consider why you should wait. Pruning motivates plants to heal cut wounds and sparks regrowth. During winter, plants are dormant and not prepared to regrow. Pruning plants too early in the late fall or early winter leaves any new, tender growth susceptible to damage from the following factors:

• freezing temperatures
• clinging frost and ice
• loss of natural insulation
• stress of interrupted dormancy
• slow healing
• open wounds vulnerable to pests, diseases, and moisture

As the plant uses stored energy to help protect vulnerable areas or regrow prematurely, it leaves less for healthy growth. This can lead to overall plant weakness and even death. It also means you could be cutting new buds that have already started to form, which makes it less likely you’ll see beautiful blooms in the spring.

When You Should Prune

Many woody trees and plants should be pruned in late winter or early spring. This is right before new growth starts, so the plant is ready to heal wounds and regrow.

If the plant produces spring flowers, wait to prune until after they finish blooming. If flowers bloom in the summer, you should be safe to prune in early spring.

You don’t have to remove all dead perennial stems in your garden either. Not only could they provide something to look at in the winter, but they also act as insulation to protect new shoots and beneficial insects below.

If you’re looking for something to do outside this winter, only remove what’s diseased or damaged. Wait for the right season to do any structural pruning to help maintain shape, size, and overall health.