Good pruning is mostly about timing. Cut at the right time of year and a tree heals fast and grows back stronger. Cut at the wrong time and you can invite disease or lose a season of flowers. This is a simple calendar for gardens in the Chilterns.

Late winter: most shade trees

From January to early March, most trees are dormant. Without leaves you can see the whole structure, the cuts seal quickly once spring growth starts, and pests are not active yet. This is the best window for oaks, beech, ash and most fruit trees.

Spring: wait for the flowers

Trees that bloom early in the year, like dogwood, magnolia and lilac, set their buds the summer before. Prune them right after they finish flowering, not in winter, or you will cut off this year's show.

Summer: light work only

Summer is fine for removing dead or broken limbs and for small shaping cuts. Avoid heavy pruning in the heat, and check hedges for nesting birds before you cut.

Autumn: hold off

Fungi spread their spores in autumn, and fresh cuts heal slowly as trees go dormant. Unless a branch is dead or dangerous, it can wait until winter.

Not sure what you have in the garden? Our tree guide lists the best pruning time for common species, or we can tell you on a free site visit.