There are certain plants that need to be pruned during the autumn or winter to avoid diseases spreading with The Royal Horticultural Society offering some expert advice. Get the latest top news stories sent straight to your inbox with our daily newsletter We have more newsletters Get the latest top news stories sent straight to your inbox with our daily newsletter We have more newsletters Now is a crucial period for pruning certain plants to ensure they return with vigour next spring. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) explains that pruning is a selective method of removing parts of a plant to promote better growth.
It's essential to understand the specific timing for each shrub and flower, determining when to use the secateurs or when to hold off. As we approach the dormant season, experts highlight that there's a lot in the garden that requires attention. Here is some advice on specific types of plants, the Mirror reports.
For those with roses in windy or exposed locations, David Austin of RHS recommends cutting back shrub roses by one-third in mid to late October. This is best done after the last blooms have wilted. The aim is to prevent "wind rock", where the rose's base becomes unstable due to wind, loosening it from the soil.
It's important to clear away any "dead, dying, diseased and damaged steams" and remove leftover foliage. Mediterranean varieties such as rosemary, lavender, and citrus need trimming after their bloom but before the onset of winter to minimise st.