There are a number of reasons why we need to prune; to restrict a plant that is outgrowing the space given to it and to remove dead, diseased or damaged sections (termed renovative pruning) or to stimulate young growth, to encourage the flowering or fruiting of weak plants and to restore health and vigour to neglected ones (termed regenerative pruning). Pruning may also be undertaken to improve the shape of shrubs, hedges and trees (formative pruning).

To learn more about all three types of pruning, select a category from the menu below.