July 12, 2021

Pruning the Apple Espalier and Hornbeam Hedges

There's a lot of garden work underway at my Bedford, New York farm.

This time of year, everyone is weeding, watering, fertilizing, and pruning. Pruning is about more than just looks; proper pruning improves the health of the plants, prevents disease, and encourages better flowering. There are different pruning strategies for different times of the year, but overall the goals are the same - to control the shape, to keep bushes and trees fresh and open, and to allow for better air circulation through the center of the specimen. My gardeners and outdoor grounds crew have been busy pruning various plantings including the hornbeam hedges surrounding my white lily garden and the apple espaliers behind my long carport.

Enjoy these photos.