Spring flowering bushes: when to plant, prune and move?

Spring is a time of renewal and growth, and one of the best ways to celebrate the season is by planting spring flowering bushes. These plants add color, fragrance, and beauty to your garden and can brighten up any outdoor space. When it comes to planting spring flowering bushes, it's important to know the right time to do so.

When to plant spring flowering bushes?

The best time to plant spring flowering bushes is in the fall or early spring, before the buds begin to open. This gives the plants time to establish their roots before the hot summer weather sets in. When planting, make sure to choose a location with well-drained soil and adequate sunlight. Spring flowering bushes also need proper watering, so be sure to water them regularly, especially during dry periods.

Which spring flowering bushes can I plant?

Add color to your garden with a lovely selection of spring flowering bushes. But which varieties grow best in our climate? Here’s our top 5 of spring flowering bushes that will give you that fresh and neat look in your garden.

Forsythia: Forsythia is a popular choice for spring gardens due to its bright yellow flowers that bloom in early spring before the leaves appear.
Azalea: Azaleas are a versatile and colorful choice, with blooms that come in a range of shades, including pink, red, white, and purple.
Lilac: Lilacs are a classic spring flowering bush, known for their fragrant purple flowers that bloom in the late spring.
Dogwood: Dogwoods are a popular choice for spring gardens, with their bright pink or white blooms that appear in the early spring.
Magnolia: Magnolias are prized for their large, fragrant blooms that come in a range of colors, including pink, purple, and white. They are a great addition to any garden, and they bloom in early to mid-spring.

These spring flowering bushes are sure to brighten up any outdoor space and provide a burst of color and fragrance to your garden during the spring season.

When to prune spring flowering bushes?

After your spring flowering bushes have been planted, it's important to prune them regularly to maintain their shape and encourage healthy growth. Pruning should be done after the plants have finished blooming, typically in late spring or early summer. This will allow the plants to focus their energy on new growth instead of on producing flowers. Be sure to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged wood, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.

Pro-tip: use the right tools when pruning your bushes

It sounds cliché, but the right tools do really make the job a whole lot easier! Using a few basic tools will help you effectively prune your spring flowering bushes. Here are some suggestions:

Pruning Shears: Pruning shears are the most commonly used tool for trimming branches. They come in different sizes, so choose a pair that is comfortable for you to use and suitable for the size of the branches you need to cut.
Lopping Shears: For larger branches, you may need a pair of lopping shears. These have longer handles and heavier blades that give you more leverage to cut through thicker branches.
Hand Saw: For branches that are too large to cut with pruning shears or lopping shears, a hand saw may be necessary. Choose a saw with a curved blade for easier cutting.
Pruning Knife: A pruning knife is a small, sharp knife that is useful for making precise cuts and removing any dead or diseased wood.
Gloves: To protect your hands while pruning, it's a good idea to wear gloves. Choose gloves that are lightweight and provide good grip, so you can handle your pruning tools comfortably and safely.

Oh no! The weather is changing. Do I need to move my spring flowering bushes?

In some cases, you may need to move your spring flowering bushes to a new location. This could be due to a change in the light conditions, soil quality, or simply because you want to rearrange your garden. The best time to move spring flowering bushes is in the fall or early spring, before the buds begin to open. Make sure to carefully dig up the entire root ball, being careful not to damage the roots. After transplanting, be sure to water the plants well and mulch around the base to conserve moisture and protect the roots.

Planting, pruning, and moving spring flowering bushes when needed are important tasks in maintaining the health and beauty of your garden. By following these tips, you can ensure that your spring flowering bushes will bloom year after year and bring joy to your outdoor space.