Northern California Coastal & Inland Valleys
Pruning Trees, Shrubs and Vines
Pruning Trees, Shrubs and Vines, by Karan D. Cutler (Brooklyn Botanic Garden,2003) has everything you need to know about pruning and shaping plants including why pruning is important, where and how to prune, specific tips on pruning various types of plants, tools, and pruning for specific purposes such as topiaries and pollarding.
120 pages including index, product sources, color photographs, and illustrations.
Favorite or New Plant
The western redbud (Cercis occidentalis) is a small deciduous tree, growing 15-20 feet tall. It's native to Utah, Arizona, and parts of California. Redbuds bloom in early spring, producing tiny flowers that range from magenta to white. The leaves are bright green and heart-shaped and turn yellow or red in fall. The tree may have a single trunk or multiple trunks. Redbuds adapt well to different moisture and soil conditions. They can live near well-watered lawns or in a dry area. For best growth, plant in full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil and provide infrequent, deep watering in summer months. Western redbud is also resistant to oak root fungus.