Flower care

Pruning in Anticipation of Growth Stimulation In general, except for the cases already cited, the best time to prune is when the plant will recover the fastest. Severe pruning should be done just before regrowth starts in the spring so bare stubs will be hidden quickly. Pruning in late summer should be avoided since it stimulates succulent growth which may not harden sufficiently to avoid winter dieback. Storm-damaged plants should be pruned as soon after the damage occurs as possible.