DIY home guide: Spring
How to protect the value of your property, cut energy costs, avoid costly repairs, and spiff up your surroundings this spring.
Make timely cuts
Cost: Free
To give your plants the best shot at flourishing year after year, prune prudently. Trim shrubs that flower in the spring right after they bloom, says gardening author Melinda Myers.
Prune shrubs that bloom in summer before any new growth has started. Same goes for trees. That way you can take care of all your winter damage at once.
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Last updated January 28 2011: 4:30 PM ET
