Shear we go

work with the natural outline of the plant and aim for a balanced shape that suits the space it has available.

Remove one branch at a time and regularly step back to check your work. Once you’ve made the cut it’s too late to change your mind!

If you’re removing a whole branch, don’t cut it flush to the trunk – cut next to the branch collar (the swelling where the branch and trunk join).

If you’re shortening a branch, you should always cut just above a healthy bud, pair of buds or side shoot.

This is because new branches will

grow from the next bud below the point where you cut. Aim for a gap of 0.5cm between your cut and the bud.

If you cut too close you may damage the bud – but if you leave too large a gap then the excess branch may rot and expose the plant to infections.

When cutting back a plant, the rule to remember is the “three Ds” – you need to remove anything that is dead, damaged or diseased.

Try to prune back to an outfacing bud – if you choose one that faces inwards, all the new branches will grow towards the centre of the tree,

making it look tangled. If you can, make the cut at a 45 degree angle to stop moisture collecting at the wound. This will help it seal faster.

And before you start, check for birds’ nests and be sure to avoid branches carrying them – they might not be in use at the moment but many species return to the same nests year after year.

Lots of gardeners ask if it is necessary to use “wound paint” after pruning to seal the spots where branches have been removed.

Most trees will seal quickly and safely, especially if the cut is clean and water can’t collect on it.

The exceptions are plum and cherry trees – these are vulnerable to infection and should be treated.

As ever, if you’re unsure it pays to ask for advice at your local garden centre.

To get the best result, first remove any branches that are weak, rubbing, growing inwards or cross over each other. Then cut back overgrown branches to balance the shape.

Pruning is a simple autumn task that will protect plants through winter and help to keep your garden diseasefree and your trees and shrubs will be safer in winter gales.

And the fruits of your labour can help in another way too – use your pruned branches to create a log pile, providing a haven for insects and attracting wildlife into your garden.