January, and even February, often go unnoticed in the garden calendar due to winter. There are no major blooms or harvests in sight, but that doesn't mean they are unproductive months. In fact, the first month of the year can be key to preparing your plants so they grow stronger in spring. According to Rural Sprout, well-executed winter pruning at the right time helps improve shape, stimulate flowering, and promote better fruit production. Remember that winter also brings dry days and temperatures that are, of course, above freezing. That's where you should take advantage! Furthermore, the plant's structure is more clearly visible, helping you decide which branches to remove. Also read: 5 plants that can help repel cockroaches in your home. 5 plants you should prune in January to prepare them for spring. 1. Hydrangeas. But not all hydrangeas are pruned the same way. French hydrangeas, which are very common, bloom on old wood and are pruned after flowering. However, there are two types that should be pruned in January or February: the panicle hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata) and the tree hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens). Both produce flowers on the new growth of the year. In these cases, you can reduce the plant by between one-third and one-half, depending on the desired size and shape. This pruning encourages stronger stems and more abundant flowering. 2. Climbing and Shrub Roses Roses need annual pruning to maintain their vigor and stimulate flowering. Late January or February is a good time to remove dead, weak, or wind-damaged dogs. This isn't an extreme cut, but rather a thinning that allows the plant's energy to be concentrated on healthy shoots. If a branch is clearly dead, it should be cut back as low as possible. In the case of partial damage, it is advisable to cut just below the affected area.

3.Wisteria

Wisteria is a vigorous climber that benefits from regular pruning. In winter, before the buds swell and the sap begins to flow strongly, is the right time to cut back the long shoots. The aim is to reduce vegetative growth and encourage flowering.

It is recommended to cut back the previous year's shoots until the buds are visible, which helps to concentrate flowering in spring.

4. Apple and Pear Trees

Apple and pear trees do not usually require drastic pruning, unless they have dead or diseased branches. In general, it is enough to cut back approximately one-third of the previous year's growth. In very vigorous specimens, this can be up to half.

Always cut above an outward-facing bud, which helps maintain an open, canopy-like shape. This improves ventilation and allows sunlight to reach the entire tree evenly.

5. Currants

Currants, whether black, red, or pink, are dormant during the winter. Therefore, January and February are ideal for removing the oldest dogs. These plants produce best on two- or three-year-old branches, so gradually removing the old canes helps renew the shrub.

It's not necessary to remove all the old canes at once, but it is advisable to do so gradually to redirect energy towards the young, productive shoots.

An extra tip: before you start pruning, it's important to check the weather forecast, as pruning is not recommended if frost is expected. Cutting into frozen wood can damage tissues and increase the risk of disease.

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