Now is a good time to prune trees and shrubs along with fruits such as grapes and raspberries to maintain health and the attractive shape of the plant. Prune before growth has started or wait till plants have leafed out.
Prune out dead and diseased branches, water sprouts, water sprouts and sucker growth. Take out crossing and rubbing branches and those that grow towards the center instead of outward.
Do not prune spring blooming shrubs such as forsythia and lilacs. They may be pruned after they have finished blooming. Shrubs that flower in June or later can be pruned now.