Monday's Myth #3

Fall is the best season for pruning.

This is false for several reasons. Shrubs and trees store carbohydrates (food materials) in their branches and leaves, so fall pruning can reduce their cold hardiness.

Azaleas and other spring-flowering plants would bloom poorly if pruned in fall, as next year's flower buds are present at that time. Such plants are best pruned in spring right after petals fall.