Five Essential Shrubs to Prune in Early Spring in BC

Early spring is the perfect time to prune many shrubs in British Columbia. Pruning at the right time encourages healthy growth, improves flowering, and keeps plants looking their best. If you’re wondering which shrubs need attention in March or April, here are five key plants to trim before new growth takes off.  

1. Hydrangeas (Hydrangea spp.)  

✂ Why prune now: Early spring is ideal for panicle hydrangeas (Hydrangea paniculata) and smooth hydrangeas (Hydrangea arborescens), which bloom on new wood.  

⚠ Avoid pruning bigleaf hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla) in spring—they bloom on old wood, so wait until after flowering.  

🔹 How to prune: Cut back last year’s stems by ⅓ to encourage bushier growth and larger blooms.    

2. Spirea (Spiraea spp.)  

✂ Why prune now: Earlyflowering varieties like Spiraea japonica benefit from pruning before new growth starts.  

🔹 How to prune: Trim back up to ⅓ of the oldest stems at the base to rejuvenate the plant. Shape lightly for a tidy appearance.   

3. Potentilla (Dasiphora fruticosa)  

✂ Why prune now: This hardy shrub blooms on new growth, so early spring pruning promotes more flowers.  

🔹 How to prune: Cut back up to ½ of the oldest stems to the ground and shape the rest for a compact form.  

4. Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea)  

✂ Why prune now: Pruning in early spring encourages vibrant new red stems (best for winter interest).  

🔹 How to prune: Remove ⅓ of the oldest stems at ground level to stimulate fresh growth.  

5. Butterfly Bush (Buddleia davidii)  

✂ Why prune now: Cutting back before spring ensures vigorous growth and more flowers.  

⚠ Note: Invasive in some BC areas—consider native alternatives like California lilac (Ceanothus) if concerned.  

🔹 How to prune: Cut stems back to 12–24 inches above the ground.  

 General Pruning Tips for BC Gardeners  

✔ Use sharp, clean tools to prevent disease.  

✔ Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches first.  

✔ Avoid pruning spring bloomers (e.g., lilacs, forsythia) until after flowering.  

✔ Check local guidelines—some municipalities restrict pruning to protect nesting birds.  

Have you pruned these shrubs yet? Share your spring gardening tips in the comments!  

🌿 Need more pruning advice? Check out our guides on Fruit Tree Pruning or Best Native Shrubs for BC!  (By GYCS)