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ones can be hidden by the foliage in just a few weeks. Pea sticks, bamboo canes, tripods or plant supportsSoft string or plant tiesApril - June (or as required) 30 minutes Twiggy stems that have been pruned from shrubs in winter make ideal 'pea sticks

the woody, flowered stems. Prune back to just above vigorous green stems growing from low down on the plant.For the thickest woody stems, or where shrubs have become very overgrown, use long-handled loppers or a garden saw to cut through the tough stems

.AdamRecycle old cotton t-shirts by cutting them into narrow strips to use as plant ties.Supporting and training plantsUsing plant supportsMaking a spiral supportCreating a rustic trellis for climbersTraining a necatarine tree against a fence - video project

to make the shape out of chicken wire and secure it over the box plant. As soon as the growth pokes through the mesh of wires, clip into shape.More on trimming and pruningPruning a viburnum - video advice from Chris BeardshawTrimming a conifer hedge

by tying them in to the hedge with a strong rope.Pruning and shaping your plantsViburnum, with Chris BeardshawShrub roses, with Monty DonPruning plantsBox topiaryBrowse a variety of deciduous treesView a selection of hazel plants

Once apple trees are established it's best to summer prune the spur-fruiting varieties. This will encourage the development of short flowering shoots or 'spurs' that go on to bear clusters of fruit. Summer pruning is ideal for keeping the trees

Joe Swift demonstrates how to prune and take hardwood cuttings from dogwoods.springCreative suggestions for dogwoodCreate a dogwood container displayCreate a winter container displayMake a christmas wreathBrowse dogwood varietiesAdd autumn colour

Chris Beardshaw demonstrates how to lift and divide congested clumps of autumn-flowering Nerine bowdenii, and suggests growing Nerine sarniensis in a pot. springhalf an hourMore advice on growing flowersBrowse a selection of tender perennial plantsView plants by flower colourRead...

straight to the compost heap where they'll rot down quickly.Advice on growing fruitTraining a necatarine tree against a fence - video project with Monty DonMonty Don's favourite fruit varietiesDeal with brown rot on fruit treesSummer-prune apple trees

to where a vigorous shoot has emerged.Cut through the supporting ties to allow the removal of the pruned flowered shoots. Train in strongest new shoots as they develop throughout the rest of the growing season.AdamWear gloves and protective goggles when