The month of July does not signal a break for the secateurs! Even in summer, some light pruning remains useful to stimulate production, aerate plants, and preserve the natural balance of the garden.
Summer Pruning of Fruit Trees
July is the ideal time for summer pruning of fruit trees such as apple, pear, peach, apricot, and quince trees. The objective: to encourage better fruiting next year and maintain a balanced growth habit, without exhausting the tree. This gentle pruning also helps limit the spread of diseases by avoiding severe cuts.
Raspberry Bushes and Small Fruits
It's also time to prune non-everbearing raspberry bushes (like 'Tulameen' or 'Meeker') once their harvest is complete. Remove the canes that have fruited to encourage the growth of new productive canes.
Aromatic Plants and Ornamental Shrubs
In July, you can also lightly prune your aromatic plants (lavender, rosemary, sage) after flowering. This prolongs their vitality while maintaining a compact silhouette.
For shrubs and perennials, prune plants like rockrose, ceanothus, deutzia, mock orange, spiraea, weigela, dogwood, viburnum, etc. A gentle cut is enough to strengthen branching without compromising their future flowering.
What about Roses?
Non-recurrent roses can also be pruned in early summer, once their single flowering has passed. However, avoid heavy pruning during dry periods.
🌱 Fertilaine Tip: Take advantage of pruning to mulch your flowerbeds with shredded residue. This reduces the need for watering and naturally enriches your soil: a simple gesture for a more sustainable and water-efficient garden.