Don't prune now: November

For many plants, there is an ideal month or time for pruning. However, it’s usually not a big deal if you deviate from this slightly. Trees, shrubs, and plants are often stronger and more resilient than we think.

However, there are also plants that you definitely shouldn't prune right now…

Below is a list of plants you should avoid pruning this month (and why).

You should NOT prune these plants in November

Lavender (Lavandula)

Pruning now could cause frost damage or even lead to plant loss.

Learn more about the Pruning Lavender

Evergreen hedge plants and shrubs

Evergreen hedge plants and evergreen shrubs should ideally not be pruned after September or October. This helps prevent frost damage and keeps new shoots from freezing.

Stone fruits (Prunus)

Pruning stone fruits such as cherries, plums, peaches, apricots, and almonds in the fall or winter can lead to fungal diseases such as sooty mold and scab.

Learn more about the Pruning Prunus (stone fruits)

Exotic and Mediterranean Plants

Pruning in November can make Mediterranean and exotic plants such as palms (Trachycarpus), banana trees (Musa), New Zealand flax (Phormium), agave, and olive trees, pruning in November can make them more susceptible to frost damage or even cause them to die.