Renowned gardening expert Alan Titchmarsh has issued a vital warning to green-fingered enthusiasts ahead of autumn – there's one plant you should never prune during this season if you want to enjoy its full glory next year.
The Autumn Pruning Mistake That Could Cost You Next Year's Blooms
As leaves begin to turn and gardeners reach for their secateurs, Titchmarsh emphasises that hydrangeas should be left untouched during autumn pruning sessions. "It's the one plant I always warn people about," the beloved horticulturist explains.
Why Hydrangeas Need Special Treatment
The reason lies in how these popular garden shrubs flower:
- Hydrangeas bloom on old wood – last year's growth
- Autumn pruning removes next season's flower buds
- Cutting now means no spectacular blooms next summer
The Right Time to Prune Hydrangeas
Titchmarsh advises waiting until late winter or early spring to prune hydrangeas, just as new growth begins to appear. This ensures:
- You can clearly see which stems are dead
- You avoid removing viable flower buds
- The plant has maximum time to recover before flowering
For gardeners eager to tidy their borders now, Titchmarsh suggests focusing on plants that do benefit from autumn pruning, like:
- Fruit trees
- Roses
- Certain deciduous shrubs
More Autumn Gardening Tips from the Expert
The TV gardener shares additional seasonal advice:
Mulching: Apply a thick layer around plants to protect roots from frost.
Bulb planting: Now's the perfect time to plant spring-flowering bulbs.
Lawn care: Give your grass a final cut before winter, but don't scalp it.
By following these expert tips, UK gardeners can ensure their outdoor spaces remain vibrant through the seasons.
