February pruning: Techniques and tips to revitalize your orchard and garden

Pruning in February is an essential practice to prepare your trees and shrubs for the new season. During this month, most plants are still dormant, allowing you to make precise cuts without causing undue stress to the plant. In this article, we offer you a complete guide on how to carry out pruning in February, what techniques to use and the benefits of good winter maintenance.

Importance of pruning in February

Pruning at this time of the year has multiple benefits:

• Stimulates growth: Removing dead or damaged branches encourages the development of new branches and improves flowering.
• Prevents diseases: Cutting off affected parts helps prevent the spread of fungi and pests.
• Improves plant shape: Proper pruning helps trees and shrubs to acquire a balanced and aesthetic shape.
• Facilitates garden management: A well-pruned tree is easier to water, fertilize and maintain throughout the season.

Recommended techniques for February pruning

1. Cleaning pruning:
   Removes all dry, diseased or damaged branches. This first cut allows the plant to concentrate its energy on the healthy parts.
2. Formative pruning:
   Performs precise cuts to shape the structure of the tree or shrub. In this technique, the aim is to give a balanced shape, eliminating branches that grow in undesired directions.
3. Rejuvenation pruning:
   In old fruit trees and shrubs, it is important to remove some of the overgrowth to encourage fruit production and stimulate new branch growth.
4. Maintenance pruning:
   This involves making minor cuts to maintain the health and appearance of the garden, ensuring good ventilation and exposure to light.

Tools and care

Use sharp, clean tools to avoid damaging the plant and spreading disease. Some essential tools are:

• Pruning shears: For small branches and precise cuts.
• Pruning saws: For thicker branches.
• Gardening gloves: To protect your hands.
• Disinfectant: Clean tools before and after use.

In addition, it is advisable to prune on dry days and at moderate temperatures, so that the plant’s wounds heal quickly and the risk of infection is reduced.

Additional tips

• Observe the structure of each plant: Not all plants need the same type of pruning. Know the characteristics of your trees and shrubs to apply the most appropriate technique.
• Don’t over prune: Cutting too much can weaken the plant. It is better to make several light cuts over time.
• Adequate fertilization after pruning: Take advantage of the winter to enrich the soil with compost, humus or some granulated fertilizer, which will help the recovery and growth of the plants.

Long-term benefits

A well-executed pruning in February not only improves the performance and appearance of the garden or orchard over the winter, but sets the stage for a spring full of life and abundance. By removing the unnecessary, your plants will be able to concentrate their resources on growing healthily, producing better quality flowers and fruit.

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