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Pruning

UK //ˈpruːnɪŋ//US //ˈpruːnɪŋ//

Definition

The process of cutting away dead or overgrown branches from plants to encourage growth.

In simple words: Cutting off parts of a plant to help it grow.

Examples

Pruning the rose bushes will help them bloom more beautifully in the spring.
Regular pruning is essential for maintaining healthy fruit trees.
The gardener spent the afternoon pruning the overgrown hedges.
After pruning, the plant showed signs of new growth.
Pruning can prevent disease by removing infected parts of the plant.

Usage notes

Used primarily in gardening or agriculture contexts. Avoid casual conversation unless discussing plants specifically.

Grammar pattern

pruning + object

Memory hint

Think of 'pruning a tree' to remember cutting to help it grow.

Collocations

pruning shears
pruning technique
pruning process
annual pruning
pruning season

Synonyms

trimming
shearing
cutting
clipping
snipping

Common mistakes

Confused with 'training', which relates to teaching rather than cutting.
Omitting the context of plants when using 'pruning'.
Mixing up with 'prune', which is a fruit.