barberry bush

Question

I always prune my bush in the fall. In the summer it seems to grow like crazy taking over space in the garden. Can I trim it back a little in July or august. I don’t want to hurt through bush but would like to control it better.

Answer 1

There is a difference between pruning and trimming. Trimming is fine in July and August to control height. Pruning removes thick old canes and crossing branches to shape the overall plant and keep it vigorous. Prune in spring after blooming, or before it blooms if they aren't important to you. Any time you find dead or diseased branches, you should remove those promptly regardless of time of year.