As the May sun warms British soil, gardeners across the UK are eagerly tending to their plots. However, a leading horticulture expert has issued a stark warning against a common spring task that could be doing more harm than good.
While the instinct to give plants a tidy trim is strong this time of year, one specific gardening job could be stunting growth and jeopardising the health of your beloved blooms and shrubs.
The Forbidden Cut
The gardening practice to avoid at all costs this month is the pruning of spring-flowering shrubs. Many gardeners, eager to shape their plants after their vibrant display, reach for the shears. This, according to the expert, is a critical error.
"Pruning now removes the nascent buds that are already preparing for next year's spectacle," the specialist explains. Plants like lilac, rhododendron, and forsythia are currently directing their energy into creating these buds. Cutting them away sacrifices the entire flowering potential for the following spring, leaving you with a barren plant.
Nurture Growth, Don't Hinder It
May is a period of immense energy and growth in the garden. The expert emphasises that plants are in a crucial phase of development, channelling their resources into strengthening roots and producing new foliage.
Unnecessary pruning interrupts this vital process. It forces the plant to divert its limited energy away from healthy growth to simply heal its wounds. This can leave it weakened and more susceptible to disease and pest infestations.
What You Should Be Doing Instead
So, if the secateurs should stay in the shed, what jobs should take priority this month?
- Feeding: Focus on nourishing your plants with a balanced fertiliser to support their vigorous growth.
- Watering: With temperatures rising, consistent watering is key, especially for newly planted specimens.
- Weeding: Stay on top of weeds that compete with your plants for essential nutrients and water.
- Planting: May is the perfect time to plant summer-flowering bedding plants and sow seeds for a continuous display.
By resisting the urge to prune and focusing on these supportive tasks, you are investing in your garden's long-term health and ensuring a breathtaking display for seasons to come.
