Knowledgebase

Spring pruning #924770

Asked February 18, 2026, 8:03 PM EST

What shrubs should not be pruned in spring?

Benton County Oregon

Expert Response

Thanks for contacting "ask extension" about when to prune your shrubs.
   In general, you want to avoid pruning shrubs that flower in spring or early summer. These shrubs set their buds on old wood (last seasons growth).  Prune them after they have bloomed.
Exceptions! 
  • You can remove dead, broken, or diseased branches anytime, even on spring-blooming shrubs—just don’t do major shaping beforehand if you want blooms.
  • If a shrub is grown mainly for foliage or structure (not flowers), it’s can be pruned in late winter/early spring.
References you might find useful: These list common shrubs that should not be pruned in the spring.
Pruning Flowering Shrubs: (PSU) https://extension.psu.edu/trees-lawns-and-landscaping/pruning-flowering-shrubs?utm_source=ExtensionBot
Pruning Trees and Shrubs: (OSU)
https://extension.oregonstate.edu/sites/extd8/files/documents/12281/pruningtreesshrubs.pdf
Let me know if you have a specific shrub you are concerned about and I can give you more specific advice.
Happy Gardening!
Deb K Replied February 19, 2026, 1:30 PM EST

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