Knowing when to trim bushes and shrubs is just as important as knowing how. Trim at the wrong time, and you can stunt growth, ruin flowering cycles, or stress plants—especially in West Texas heat.

If you live in San Angelo, timing matters even more due to our hot summers, mild winters, and unpredictable rain.

Here's a simple, local guide to help you trim at the right time—and avoid common mistakes.

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Why Timing Matters for Shrub Trimming

Shrubs and bushes store energy differently throughout the year. Trimming at the wrong moment can:

• Reduce flowering the following season
• Leave plants vulnerable to heat stress
• Cause uneven or leggy growth
• Increase disease or pest issues

In San Angelo's climate, improper timing can do damage fast.

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Best Time to Trim Most Bushes in San Angelo

Late Winter to Early Spring (Best Overall)

For most non-flowering shrubs, late winter to early spring is ideal.

Why it works:

• Plants are dormant or just waking up
• Trimming encourages healthy new growth
• Easier to shape before active growing season
• Less stress before summer heat arrives

This is the safest, most widely recommended window for general shrub maintenance.

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Spring-Flowering Shrubs: Trim After Blooming

If your shrubs bloom in spring (like azaleas or similar ornamentals), do not trim them in late winter.

Best practice:

• Let them bloom first
• Trim immediately after flowering ends

Why? These shrubs form next year's buds shortly after blooming. Trim too early, and you cut the flowers off before they ever show up.

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Summer Trimming: Light Touch Only

Summer trimming in San Angelo should be minimal and strategic.

Acceptable summer trimming includes:

• Light shaping
• Removing dead or damaged branches
• Preventing overgrowth near walkways or structures

Avoid heavy trimming during peak heat. Aggressive cuts can expose plants to sunburn and stress when they're already fighting the heat.

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Fall Trimming: Usually Not Recommended

Fall is the most misunderstood season for trimming.

In San Angelo, heavy fall trimming is usually a bad idea because:

• It encourages new growth right before colder weather
• New growth is more vulnerable to frost
• Plants don't have time to recover before dormancy

Light cleanup is okay, but major trimming should wait until late winter.

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What About Evergreen Shrubs?

Evergreens (like boxwoods and similar shrubs) are more forgiving, but timing still matters.

Best times:

• Late winter
• Early spring
• Light touch-ups in early summer

Avoid aggressive trimming in late summer or fall.

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Signs Your Shrubs Need Trimming (Regardless of Season)

Sometimes timing takes a back seat to safety or appearance. Trim if you notice:

• Branches blocking walkways or driveways
• Overgrowth touching your home or fence
• Dead, broken, or diseased branches
• Shrubs losing their shape or crowding other plants

In these cases, selective trimming is better than waiting too long.

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DIY vs Professional Shrub Trimming

Many homeowners damage shrubs by:

• Cutting too much at once
• Trimming into extreme shapes
• Using dull or improper tools
• Trimming at the wrong time of year

Professional trimming focuses on:

• Proper timing
• Clean cuts
• Long-term plant health
• Balanced, natural shape

It's not just about looks—it's about keeping your landscaping alive and healthy.

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Need Bush or Shrub Trimming in San Angelo, TX?

If you're not sure when or how to trim your bushes and shrubs, Joe's Mows can help. We offer professional bush and shrub trimming services tailored to San Angelo's climate and growing seasons.