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It's rose pruning time again. I could debate the merits of autumn pruning over spring, but I've always believed spring really is the best time to tackle pruning.Rose pruning isn't a job to hurry. You need time to ponder, step back and deliberate

It's always been my ritual, in the first week of March, to start the long-awaited pruning of overwintered herb shrubs and trees. However, a word of warning for those who live in the north - the long range forecast is for another cold snap, possibly

Pruning and cutting back is important if your plants are to give their best display or crop, and to prevent them outgrowing their space. Most woody ornamental plants are best pruned in the dormant season or, if they are spring flowering, as soon

Chris Beardshaw demonstrates how to prune an old viburnum, removing sideshoots and woody growth to reinvigorate the plant and encourage flowering.springMore advice on pruning plantsHow to prune shrub rosesAdvice on pruning techniquesHow to summer-prune

Joe Swift demonstrates how to prune back honeysuckle, in the cottage garden at Berryfields.early AprilMore advice on pruning plantsPruning shrub roses video guidePruning viburnum plants, with advice from Chris BeardshawTips on pruning plantsPruning

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

Pruning roses keeps them in shape and encourages more flower growth and healthier plants. Cut weak shoots right back to promote stronger growth from the base.Rose bushSecateursautumn or spring20 minutesRemove dead shoots and the tips of stems

Learn how to ensure that your buddleja achieves its full flowering potential, in Monty's spring pruning guide.springMore advice on pruningVideo advice on choosing secateurs.Learn effective pruning techniques.Video guide to pruning shrub roses

The cutting back of leaves or branches for four main reasons:1) To remove dead, injured or diseased parts.2) To control or direct growth.3) To improve the yield of flowers or fruit.4) To ensure premium growth conditions by allowing more light and air to reach the centre.

Bacterial canker affects ornamental and edible Prunus species, including cherries, plums and apricots. Monty demonstrates effective techniques for pruning out infected stems, in his practical video guide.spring-summerMore problem-solving advice