Deciduous plants soon sprouting
Many people believe that living in a warm climate will dissuade a plant
from its deciduous nature. However, deciduous plants react to not only
temperate but also shortened hours of daylight and changes in precipitation.
Additionally, some plants will drop foliage in phases between new growth, and
others use abscission to aid in pollination; blooming without wind-blocking leaves
and making flowers more visible for insects.
When pruning a deciduous tree or shrub, it's generally best to wait
until late winter or early spring, before the plant begins to leaf out. Avoid
pruning during periods of new growth; during this time, the plant is weakened
by the struggle to reestablish its growth process. Before pruning your
deciduous plant, first research the specific plant, as there will always be
exceptions to general instruction. For example, many Rubus varieties desire to prune
in late fall, as their buds are developed during the dormant winter season.
Some trees may have flower or fruit during winter while having no leaves, give
them a chance to flower before pruning.
On the photo: Winter flowering Bombax ceiba in full bloom.
