Pruning Deciduous Trees and Roses
Deciduous trees can be pruned in winter, removing low branches to lift the crown of the tree or removing branches that are too big. However, avoid pruning members of the cherry family in winter as it can lead to disease. Rose bushes can be pruned from early January in most parts of the country, with bush roses and repeat-flowering climbers ideally pruned within the next two weeks.
Planting Trees, Shrubs, and Roses
Trees, shrubs, and roses can be planted during this period, especially bare-root trees and container-grown plants. Root-balled evergreens should not be planted until nearer the resumption of active growth. Deciduous tree planting can continue if the ground is not too wet.
Moving Deciduous Trees and Shrubs
Deciduous trees and shrubs can be moved at this time if they were planted in the wrong place, even quite large shrubs move well mostly.
Maintaining Trees and Hedges
Control weeds around deciduous trees, shrubs, and hedges to prevent weeds this summer. It is best applied before the end of January. Hedges that have grown too tall or too wide can be cut back hard to old wood now, but not cypresses as these do not re-sprout.
Checking for Wind Damage
After gales, check all trees and shrubs for signs of wind-rocking, whether staked or not. If a young tree has been knocked sideways but not out of the ground, it is sometimes possible to straighten it up by digging out the soil under the lifted roots and then anchoring it with steel wires or cables, or propping it up with posts. Also, gather fallen twigs that may have blown from trees during gales.
