Gardeners Urged To Remove The ‘Three Ds’ When Pruning Dormant Plants

Pruning plants is one of the top gardening jobs for March. From hydrangeas to rambling roses, a well-timed trim can help your favourite flowers bloom more beautifully.

But have you been following the three-step pruning rule for guaranteed sprouting success?

“While the plant is dormant, gardeners should focus on removing the three ‘Ds’ — dead, diseased or damaged parts,” says Noah Mabey, Senior Gardener at Thornbridge Hall. “These must always be removed first, as they compromise the overall health of the plant and set it up for strong growth in spring.

“Damaged stems are not good and should be removed and pruned back to a healthy bud. This is because wounds to the stems make the plant more susceptible to diseases and pests. It also creates a weakness in the stem, which can lead to unwanted breakage.”

person pruning a flower

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When removing old leaves, Noah says to look out for any affected by diseases such as blackspot. “Do not put these into your compost pile to help control disease and reinfection,” he says. “These should be disposed of in household waste.”

While this clever trick can be applied to every plant, Noah says this works especially well when pruning roses.

“New stems are typically greener in colour and smoother. If your plant has produced plenty of new shoots, consider removing one or two of the oldest stems to make room for this fresh growth,” says Noah.

“Older stems tend to be darker and may be covered in moss or lichen. Younger stems carry more energy and will produce stronger flowering. Remove any stems thinner than a pencil, as these may be too weak to hold a flower.”

You can also use this as an opportunity to train your rose, as they cannot anchor themselves.

“Secure stems to supports using a soft material such as jute string. Avoid wire, which can rub against the stem, causing wounds that lead to disease and plant death.”

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Deputy Daily Editor, Country Living and House Beautiful

Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she’s busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.