Pruning is the practice of cutting away unwanted growth; it may be diseased, overmature, or simply in the way. Deadheading (removing spent flowers before they begin to set seed) in order to concentrate a plant's energy on continued flower production is also a form of pruning, as is the practice of pinching back herbaceous plants, such as chrysanthemums to delay flowering or to encourage denser or more prolific growth.

Individual plant species tend to have very different pruning needs, and in this section we aim to offer you a complete guide to the major forms, including shrubs, roses, trees, climbers and hedges. Armed with these chief principles of pruning, you'll be able to use this knowledge to improve significantly the look and health of your plants.