Garden Tips Winter 2006
		Pruning
		We have probably all seen the pictures in the local newspaper of the farmers out pruning their orchards and vineyards. They are not out there in the winter because they need something to do, it's because now is the right time to prune these plants. In addition to fruit bearing trees and grapevines it is a good time to prune roses. One reason now is a good time to prune is the lack of predators that can invade the wounded area before the plant has a chance to heal and protect itself. However, there are some plants, like spring blooming lilacs, that you do not want to prune now. The flower buds that will open this spring are already established on these plants. If you were to prune lilacs now, you would be removing these buds and eliminating or greatly reducing your spring flowers. MSU Extension has several pamphlets available on pruning. If you want to know when to prune what plants and how, refer to the following MSU Extension pdf files.
		Pruning Bearing Fruit Trees in the Home Orchard
		Pruning Landscape Plants
		Pruning Roses
		Pruning Shrubs
		Pruning Trees
		Pruning Vines and Ground Covers