Trimming in August... - Ask Extension
I have a mock orange that i would like to trim back into it's oval shape. Nothing major as was shaping it earlier in Summer. Too hot to do it in Aug...
Knowledgebase
Trimming in August... #351817
Asked August 10, 2016, 8:07 AM EDT
I have a mock orange that i would like to trim back into it's oval shape. Nothing major as was shaping it earlier in Summer. Too hot to do it in August?
Thank you for your help!
Washington County Minnesota
Expert Response
It's best to prune mock orange just after the blossoms fade. That way growth that follows can set flower buds to bloom the next growing season. Pruning later in the season will reduce or eliminate those buds.
If you are willing to sacrifice some bloom for the sake of shaping the plant, trimming lightly now won't harm it. However, avoid pruning in late summer.
When hard pruning or rejuvenation is needed, do it in late winter or early spring.
This information may be of interest:
http://extension.psu.edu/plants/green-industry/news/2012/hacking-whacking-dealing-with-overgrown-shr...
If you are willing to sacrifice some bloom for the sake of shaping the plant, trimming lightly now won't harm it. However, avoid pruning in late summer.
When hard pruning or rejuvenation is needed, do it in late winter or early spring.
This information may be of interest:
http://extension.psu.edu/plants/green-industry/news/2012/hacking-whacking-dealing-with-overgrown-shr...
