Stop! Put down the pruners. You might be committing garden sabotage—and it’s happening in May. While your instincts say “trim,” your plants are silently screaming, “Not now!” This is the month when eager hands and sharp shears cause the most heartbreak. Blooms get snipped before their big debut. Growth gets stunted. And your future flowers? Gone before they had a chance. It’s not your fault—everyone makes this mistake. But today, we’re calling out the worst pruning offenders of spring. The ones that need space, time, and patience—not a surprise haircut. Save the snips for later. Your garden will thank you with more color, more fullness, and a lot less regret.
Lilacs
Lilacs, with their fragrant blooms, are a garden favorite. However, pruning them in May is a mistake. These beautiful shrubs set their buds shortly after blooming. Pruning now can result in a lack of flowers next spring.
Instead, wait until after their spring flowering period to prune. This allows the plant to focus on budding for the next season. Remember, removing too much can hinder their natural beauty. Treat lilacs with care, and they will reward you with abundant blooms year after year.
Forsythia
Forsythias are known for their cheerful yellow flowers that signal the start of spring. Pruning them in May, however, can strip away next year’s blooms. Like lilacs, they set buds on old wood soon after flowering.
The best time to prune is immediately after they finish blooming. This allows new growth to develop and ensures vibrant displays the following spring. Be cautious, as aggressive pruning can lead to fewer flowers and a less structured bush. Embrace their golden glory with thoughtful care.
Azaleas
Azaleas, with their vibrant colors, are a springtime highlight. Pruning them in May can be detrimental, as they set buds shortly after blooming. Cutting them back now might sacrifice their spectacular show next year.
The ideal time for pruning is immediately after flowering. This approach ensures you’re not removing buds that will bloom later. Careful attention to timing will keep your azaleas lush and full of life. Enjoy their radiant colors by giving them the right attention at the right time.
Wisteria
Wisteria is a climbing beauty, famed for its stunning, cascading blooms. Pruning it in May might seem harmless, but it’s not ideal. This is the time when wisteria is putting energy into growth and needs all its resources.
Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. This timing helps control its vigorous growth and encourages plentiful blooms. Handle with care for a breathtaking floral display. Let wisteria weave its magic when given the freedom to flourish.
Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas are popular for their large, colorful blooms. While tempting to prune in May, timing is key to a thriving plant. Many types, like the bigleaf hydrangea, set buds for the next season right after blooming.
Prune these only after they have finished flowering. This ensures robust growth and abundant blooms in future seasons. Knowing your hydrangea type is crucial, as some varieties can be pruned in other seasons. With careful timing and consideration, your hydrangeas can be a show-stopping garden centerpiece.