But there is no simple answer.

When is the best time to prune shrubs? The timing of pruning is different depending on what type of shrub it is and when it flowers (except for evergreens). For example, to preserve the flowers, lilacs should be pruned after flowering in early spring.

S ummer-flowering deciduous shrubs: Similar to the shrubs above, but they hold off on displaying their color until the summer months.

Aug 05, For most shrubs, late winter or early spring is the best time to prune. The plants are still in full dormancy at this time but are just preparing to produce new growth.

If your shrub is a spring-blooming variety, though, make sure to leave behind enough flower buds on the stems for a spring shrubmulching.barted Reading Time: 6 mins.