Spring is almost here, and that means it’s the perfect time for plant cutbacks and pruning in the Southwest! While it may look drastic at first, these cutbacks are essential for healthy growth, vibrant blooms, and a tidy landscape.
Here’s what you need to know:
Why We Do Spring Cutbacks
•Encourage new growth: Cutting back old, overgrown stems allows fresh shoots to thrive.
•Boost flowering and fruiting: Many plants, including roses, shrubs, and perennials, produce stronger blooms after pruning.
•Control size and shape: Keep plants neat and prevent overcrowding in your landscape.
•Reduce disease and pests: Removing dead or damaged branches improves airflow and reduces pest habitats.
What to Expect During Service
•Plants may look bare or scraggly right after trimming. Don’t worry – this is normal.
•Our team will carefully prune roses, shrubs, perennials, and ornamental grasses according to each plant’s needs.
•Any debris or trimmings will be removed and hauled away – leaving your yard clean.
What You Can Expect After
•Vibrant spring growth: New shoots will emerge within a few weeks, filling out your landscape.
•Stronger, healthier plants: Pruning reduces disease risk and encourages robust structure.
•Season-long beauty: With proper cutbacks, your plants will bloom fuller and longer.
Pro Tips
•Water and fertilize trimmed plants to support new growth.
•Mulching helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool during Southwest heat.
•Avoid pruning during extreme heat or drought – spring timing is key.
If you’re ready to give your plants the care they need, contact us at Red & White Greenery and let our experts help your garden thrive.
With expected temperatures to dip down into the teens in the next few days, here are some tips to help you avoid costly repairs to your backflow and irrigation system:
Step 1: Turn on the lowest zone. From the controller, turn on the irrigation zone that is at the lowest elevation point on your property – if you’re not certain, use your best judgement.
Step 2: Shut the water off. Locate the shut-off valve for your irrigation system. This is usually located by your water meter in a box in the ground, but not always. Older systems might not have an isolation valve for the irrigation system and you might need to shut the water using the backflow preventer – consider getting an isolation valve installed if you do not have one since the backflow preventer should not be used regularly to shut off the water. Shut the water off.
*Tip: Once you locate your shut-off or backflow preventer, take pictures and ensure that the box does not get covered in the future.
Step 3: Relieve Pressure. Let the system continue to run with the water off and controller still on. This allows for the pipes to drain as much as possible creating space in the pipes for water to expand if temperatures drop low enough to freeze.
Step 4: Drain the backflow preventer. One of the most expensive components in your system is your backflow device. This component is crucial for public health as well. Its purpose is to prevent irrigation water from returning back into our drinking water. Locate the 2-4 small test cocks and with a small flat head screwdriver, open these up and leave at a 45 degree angle during the “off” season.
Step 5: Turn off your controller. With the water off and your system drained, you can now turn the dial on your controller to the “off” position. Leave it off until you want to use the system again in the spring.
Protect your investment – winterize every year
Be sure to insulate any exposed pipes or any above ground backflow preventers or other exposed components. Winterizing your irrigation system can be simple, but not every system is as straightforward as outlined in this guide. If you need help or guidance, give us a call!
Red & White Greenery
Since 1983, Red & White Greenery Inc. has delivered industry-leading landscape construction and management services. We construct and manage outdoor spaces that combine beauty, functionality, and inspiration.
