Pruning in autumn: which trees and shrubs to prune

An essential garden activity — and one of the best treats you can give your plants.

Pruning in autumn is one of the smartest things you can do for your garden. By cutting back at the right time, you give plants the light and air they need to grow strong. You’ll also:

Encourage healthier flowering in spring

Keep growth under control and shape your plants

Protect trees and shrubs from disease and infection

In short, pruning is a gift to your garden — and with the right tools, it’s easier than you think. STIGA’s range of pruning tools — from lightweight manual shears to powerful battery-powered models — make the job smooth, precise, and safe.

Read on to discover which plants to prune in autumn and which STIGA tools will help you get it done right.

1. Deciduous fruit plants

 

Raspberries and blackberries

Timing: Directly after harvest
Recommended tools: STIGA Anvil pruning shears, Anvil loppers, SC 100e Kit battery pruning shear.
Prune raspberry and blackberry shrubs straight after harvesting. Cut fruit-bearing canes right down to soil level. To boost next year’s harvest, trim the tips of new canes in late spring to encourage side shoots.

 

Grape vines

Timing: Late autumn to early spring
Tools: STIGA Bypass and Anvil pruning shears, Pruning snips
Grape vines need regular pruning to stay under control and produce quality fruit. Shorten last year’s fruiting spurs to about two or three buds to ensure strong growth for the season ahead.

 

2. Perennial flowering plants

Hosta

Timing: Autumn
Tools: STIGA Pruning snips, Bypass and Anvil pruning shears
Cut hosta leaves back in autumn to reduce shelter for slugs and eggs. Leave a little growth near the soil surface to protect the plant over winter.

 

Peony

Timing: Autumn
Tools: STIGA Pruning snips, Bypass and Anvil pruning shears
Prune peonies down to just a few centimetres above the ground in autumn. You can also remove spent blooms throughout the year to keep plants tidy.

 

Lavander

Timing: Late summer or early autumn
Tools: STIGA Pruning snips, Bypass and Anvil pruning shears"Wait until your lavender has finished flowering, then prune on a dry day. Cut only the green, younger stems — not the woody base — to prevent rot and encourage fresh growth.

 

3. Herbaceous perennials

 

Mint

Timing: Autumn
Tools: STIGA Pruning snips, Bypass and Anvil pruning shears

Cut mint plants back to just above soil level. This helps them come back stronger and healthier in spring.

 

Oregano

Timing: Autumn
Tools: STIGA Pruning snips, Bypass and Anvil pruning shears
Oregano only needs light pruning — about one-third. Focus on removing woody, dead stems and faded leaves to encourage new growth.

 

Basil

Timing: Autumn
Tools: STIGA Pruning snips, Bypass and Anvil pruning shears
Basil is very sensitive to the cold, so cut back the whole plant before winter sets in.

Anvil vs. Bypass Secateurs — What’s the Difference?

Choosing the right tool is half the battle when pruning. Not sure whether to go for anvil or bypass secateurs? Here’s a quick guide:

Bypass shears have two overlapping blades, giving a clean, precise cut. Perfect for fresh, living branches that are green and flexible.

Anvil shears have a single sharp blade that closes onto a flat surface. They deliver more force, making them ideal for hard, woody, or dead branches.

With STIGA, you can choose from ergonomic manual secateurs or upgrade to smart battery-powered options like the SC 100e Kit for effortless pruning.

Autumn pruning sets your garden up for success — healthier plants, better harvests, and a garden that looks neat and well cared for. With STIGA’s innovative, easy-to-use pruning tools, you’ll get the job done with less effort and more precision.

Shop STIGA pruning tools today and give your garden the best start this season.

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