Natural Pruning???

As I drive around Modesto I am always looking to see what homeowners are doing with design and landscape maintenance. Often I get good ideas when I am looking around. Then again I see what I consider mistakes.

Here are some pictures of non-natural pruning techniques that I see as causing additional work and loosing the character that was the reason for planting

Lavender pruned like a stovepipe.

Loropetalum as a stove pipe.

Both of these plants are noted for their informal habit of growth. The lavender obviously can't bloom over the entire plant and as soon as there is any new growth it is going to be time to prune again. Lavender when used correctly should need pruning only once or twice a year.

The loropetalum makes a very large arching shrub. It naturaly grows about 6-8' across and as tall. Again this pruning is going to stop most of the bloom and obviously require lots of regular pruning.

Using plants in areas that they fit is rule #1. Thining combined with tipping can reduce the frequency of required pruning. More attractive plants, less work and more blooms.

Come in and talk to one of our staff on natural pruning techniques!!!

By the way the Garden Crew specializes in natural pruning. If you can't get your plants taken care of correctly "Let the Garden Crew do the dirty work".