How to Care for Your Shrubs This Spring

Your shrubs are waking up from winter dormancy. What you do in the next few weeks will determine how they look all summer long. Here's your complete spring shrub care guide for Long Island.

Know When to Prune (Timing Matters)

Not all shrubs should be pruned at the same time. Spring-blooming shrubs like azaleas, rhododendrons, lilacs, and forsythia bloom on last year's wood — prune these after they flower, not before. If you cut them now, you'll remove this year's blooms. Summer-blooming shrubs like butterfly bush, hydrangeas (panicle and smooth types), and roses can be pruned now in early spring before new growth starts.

Clean Up Winter Damage

Remove any dead, broken, or damaged branches first. Snow and ice can snap branches and distort the shape of your shrubs. Cut damaged branches back to a healthy bud or branch junction. Also clear out any dead leaves or debris trapped inside the shrub — this improves air circulation and prevents fungal problems.

Feed Your Shrubs

Early spring is the best time to fertilize. Use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer (like 10-10-10) around the base of your shrubs. For acid-loving plants like azaleas and hollies, use an acidic fertilizer. Spread it evenly under the canopy and water it in. Don't over-fertilize — more is not better. Follow the package directions.

Refresh Your Mulch

Add a fresh 2-inch layer of mulch around your shrubs to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Pull old mulch back from the stems first — you don't want mulch piled against the bark. Use shredded hardwood, pine bark, or leaf compost.

Shape for the Season

Once you've cleaned up damage and removed dead wood, you can lightly shape your shrubs. For formal hedges, use hedge shears for a clean line. For natural-looking shrubs, use hand pruners and make selective cuts. Never remove more than one-third of the plant in a single season.