Pruning

Prune summer flowering shrubs and evergreen shrubs in March or
early April. Spring flowering shrubs such as Azalea, spiraea (bridal
wreath), forsythia, and flowering quince should be pruned after
flowering in late March and early April, depending on weather
conditions. Always preserve the natural form of a plant when
pruning. Thin out from the center rather than shearing the plant
which destroys its form.

Pruning Roses

Roses that bloom once such as Climbers,rambling Roses and some
shrub roses should be pruned after flowering.

Roses that are ever blooming or bloom throughout the season such as
hybrid teas,grandifloras and floribundas, Prune the plants just beforeit
starts to grow(Mid to late February in Alabama). Use sharp pruning
shears or loppers. First remove all the dead or diseased canes. Next,
thin out the middle of the bush so the cane has plenty of space. Shape
the bush so new growth is directed away from the center. Locate a
healthy bud and make a 45 degree angle cut about 1/4 inch above this
bud. Coat each cut with pruning paint or glue to seal it and keep out
pest. Cut each cane in this manner so the bush is reduced by up to 2/3
its original size.