New Mexican Privet - when to prune - Ask Extension
I have found a great deal of information that NM Privet (Forestiera) can be pruned to tree shape. However I can find no one to tell me when is the b...
Knowledgebase
New Mexican Privet - when to prune #301649
Asked February 17, 2016, 10:36 PM EST
I have found a great deal of information that NM Privet (Forestiera) can be pruned to tree shape. However I can find no one to tell me when is the best time to prune it. I live in Santa FE NM
Santa Fe County New Mexico
Expert Response
The best time to prune most trees and shrubs is in January to early March, just prior to the start of spring. The plants are still mostly dormant so there is no active growth occurring, the weather is cool, and there are few insects that could invade open wounds. The tree or shrub can then heal faster going into the springtime when growth is most active.
