Frequently Asked Questions

Pruning

Training clematis and akebia

Q. I am trying to train clematis and five-leaf akebia to climb trees. What are good supports to use that won't damage the vines?

Apple trees dropping fruit

Q. Why do apple trees drop their fruit early? We have an old apple tree on our property that produces pocked, rotten apples.

Apple tree pruning tips

Q. I have several old apple trees in serious need of pruning. When is a good time to do this?

Pruning cherry tree

Q. When is the best time to prune a cherry tree?

How to Espalier Crabapple Trees

Q. I often admire the crabapple trees espaliered on the Visitor Center.

Red-twig Dogwood Color

Q: My red-twig dogwood stems don't seem to be as bright red as they used to be. What is the problem?

Pruning Evergreen Hedges

Q. When is the correct time to prune evergreen hedges?

Pruning Hydrangeas

Q: Please advise on the best time to prune hydrangeas.

Lilac Rejuvenation

Q: Why doesn’t my lilac bloom in the spring?

Pruning Fruit Trees

Q. How and when should a crabapple and peach tree be pruned?

Best Time to Prune Trees and Shrubs

Q. When is the best time of year to prune my trees and shrubs?

Pruning boxwood shrubs

Q. When is the best time to prune boxwood shrubs?

A. Established boxwood shrubs requiring little or no pruning. The best time for overall pruning to shape boxwoods is in the early spring. However, trimming stray branches and thinning cuts can be done anytime during the growing season.