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The key is to focus your efforts on summer-flowering species, as opposed to spring-blooming varieties.

It can also be a useful way to control the size and shape of any fast-growing or sprawling species.

Person wearing gardening gloves pruning hydrangeas

And if in any doubt, air on the side of caution and prune less rather than more.

Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are beloved for their large, rounded clusters of brightly colored flowers.

When pruning, focus on shaping the plant and removing any overly dense, diseased or dying branches.

Pruning shears being polished with a cloth

It will also help to keep the plant flowering healthily each year.

But, first, you must determine which of the three groups of clematis you have in your garden.

Groups 2 and 3 are suited to February pruning, since they are summer flowering.

Hydrangeas pruned at a 45 degree angle

Depending on your specific clematis, your pruning will look different.

It flowers in the summer on new growth, making it the perfect candidate for late winter pruning.

The central vines that hold onto the trellis or other support structure can be left to maintain height.

Pruning a clematis

These high-quality, Swiss-made pruners have a hardened steel blade capable of cutting 0.8 inches of material.

The smooth, red handle is ergonomically designed to provide comfort while cutting.

These pruners are ideal for medium-sized hands.

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And, since rose of Sharon blooms in mid-late summer, you are safe to prune in February.

When pruning, cut down to just one or two nodes on the branch first.

These tips should help you on your way to getting your garden in shape this season!

Felco F6 Bypass pruners

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