Seasonal Pruning in the Garden: Workshop Series

Name: Seasonal Pruning in the Garden: Workshop Series
Start: 2026-05-30T10:00:00-04:00
End: 2026-05-30T11:30:00-04:00
Location: 900 Washington St, Wellesley, MA, United States, Massachusetts 02482

Schedule

Sat May 30 2026 at 10:00 am to 11:30 am

UTC-04:00

Location

900 Washington St, Wellesley, MA, United States, Massachusetts 02482 | Wellesley, MA

Did you know there are 5 pruning seasons each year? This five-part pruning workshop series is designed to build confidence and skill by teaching what to prune, when to prune, and why timing matters throughout the garden year. Participants will explore the seasonal growth cycles of trees and shrubs and learn how pruning decisions impact plant health, structure, flowering, fruiting, and long-term performance.
Each workshop focuses on a distinct pruning window, from late winter through dormancy, and highlights the plants best suited for pruning during that season. Topics include pruning plants that flower on new vs. old wood, managing winter damage, plant renovation, evergreen care, structural and aesthetic pruning, and strategies for preventing future damage. Emphasis is placed on understanding plant response—knowing when plants are actively growing, when they respond most strongly, and when pruning has little to no growth reaction.
You may sign up for one session at a time or multiples.
Session Schedule & Topics:
Saturday, February 28th - Late Winter Pruning
Saturday, April 11th - Early Spring Pruning
Saturday, May 30th - Late Spring Pruning
SUNDAY, July 19th - Summer Pruning
Saturday November 14th - Dormant Pruning
Sessions take place outdoors in the garden, so please dress for the weather! Participants will walk the landscape, observe seasonal changes, and discuss pruning techniques in context, making this a highly practical and visual learning experience. While each workshop stands on its own, together the series provides a complete, year-round framework for thoughtful & seasonally appropriate pruning.
All levels are welcome—beginners encouraged. Class Size is limited.
Instructor: Reed Pugh
With more than 25 years of hands-on experience on both coasts, Reed brings horticultural knowledge and real-world expertise to every garden he works in. His career spans San Francisco to Boston and includes work in multiple nurseries, ownership of design, installation, and maintenance businesses, management of a 30-acre historic private estate in Brookline, and leadership of one of New England’s premier fine-gardening companies.
Today, Reed focuses his passion on working one-on-one with gardeners through his company, Barking Dog Gardens, where he helps clients understand why plants behave the way they do and how thoughtful, well-timed care can transform a landscape. Known for his clear teaching style and practical approach, Reed emphasizes plant health, seasonal awareness, and long-term beauty—empowering gardeners to make confident, informed decisions in their own gardens.
Class/Program/Workshop: 261114 Seasonal Pruning in the Garden: Workshop Series
Price: $50 Nonmembers | $38 MHS Members
Date(s) Available:
Saturday, February 28, 2026
Saturday, April 11, 2026
Saturday, May 30, 2026
SUNDAY, July 19, 2026
Saturday November 14, 2026
Time Frame: 10-11:30 am OR 12-1:30 pm ET
Location: Cheney Classroom, Education Building MHS's Garden at Elm Bank
900 Washington Street, Wellesley MA 02482