Pruning Too Early: Avoid pruning your plants too early in February, especially if there’s a chance of late frost. Early pruning can encourage new growth that might be damaged by cold temperatures. Wait until the risk of frost has passed to ensure the best results.
Cutting Too Much: Over-pruning can stress your plants and hinder their growth. Be careful not to remove more than 25-30% of the plant at once. This can leave them weakened and less capable of producing strong, healthy growth come spring.
Using Dull or Dirty Tools: Pruning with dull or unclean tools can damage the plant and introduce diseases. Always ensure your pruning shears or saws are sharp and sanitized before you begin to make clean cuts and avoid spreading any plant diseases.
Pruning at the Wrong Time for Specific Plants: Some plants, like spring-flowering shrubs (e.g., lilacs, azaleas), should not be pruned in February because they bloom on old wood.
Not Following the Natural Shape: When pruning, avoid cutting too aggressively in ways that disrupt the natural shape of the plant. Overzealous pruning can result in an unnatural appearance and uneven growth. Always aim to enhance the plant’s natural form.
Leaving Ragged Cuts: Making jagged, uneven cuts can leave your plants vulnerable to disease and pests. Ensure that you make clean, smooth cuts just above a bud or node to help the plant heal quickly and minimize stress.
Neglecting to Prune Dead or Diseased Wood: Failing to remove dead, diseased, or damaged wood in February can prevent healthy spring growth. Always make sure to trim away any dead branches or stems to promote stronger, disease-free growth in the coming season.