When is the ideal time to prune nandina?

The ideal time to prune nandina is after the Christmas season. Pruning during this period allows for a timely cut before the plant enters its active growth phase in the spring. After Christmas, nandina has completed its winter dormancy and any pruning performed at this time will help promote healthy new growth.

Pruning too early, such as during the spring or directly after Easter, could interfere with the plant's budding cycle, potentially reducing flowering or encouraging undesirable growth patterns. Similarly, pruning after Thanksgiving might be too late for optimal growth in the upcoming spring, as it may not allow sufficient time for the plant to recover before the active growing season begins. Therefore, the timing of the pruning should align closely with the natural growth cycle of nandina, making the period after Christmas the most suitable choice.