Can You Trim Bushes in the Summer: Tips for Safe Pruning

So, you’re wondering if you can trim bushes in the summer? It’s a common question, especially when your plants start looking a little wild as the weather warms up. While it might seem like a good idea to tidy things up, the timing of your pruning can actually make a big difference to your bushes’ health and how they’ll look next year. Let’s break down when and how you should approach summer trimming.

Exploring the Question: Can You Trim Bushes in the Summer?

So, you’re looking at your bushes and thinking, ‘Man, these things are getting a bit wild.’ It’s a common thought, especially when the weather’s nice, and you want your yard to look its best. But then the question pops up: can you actually trim bushes in the summer without messing them up? It’s not a simple yes or no, honestly. Some plants are pretty forgiving, while others can get really upset if you prune them at the wrong time.

Think about it like this: plants have their own schedules. They’re busy growing, flowering, and getting ready for the next season. Summer is a critical time for many of them, especially those that bloom in spring. Cutting them back too much during this period could mean fewer flowers next year, or worse, stress the plant.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to consider:

• Flowering Time: When does your bush bloom? Spring bloomers usually need to be pruned after they flower, not during their growing season. Summer bloomers are often best pruned in late winter or early spring before they start their big push.
• Plant Health: Are there dead branches, or are branches rubbing against each other? These are often good reasons to trim, regardless of the season, but you still need to be careful.
• Type of Pruning: Are you just tidying up a few stray branches, or are you planning a major overhaul? Light trimming is usually less risky than heavy pruning.

The biggest mistake people make is treating all bushes the same. They see a plant getting big and just start cutting without thinking about what that specific plant needs. It’s like trying to give everyone the same haircut – it just doesn’t work for all hair types.

Ultimately, the answer to whether you can trim bushes in the summer really depends on the bush itself and what you’re trying to achieve. It’s less about the season and more about understanding your plants.

Can You Trim Bushes in the Summer? Understanding the Basics

So, can you actually trim bushes in the summer? The short answer is yes, but it really depends on what kind of bush you have and what you’re trying to achieve. It’s not a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ situation, and jumping in without thinking can sometimes cause more problems than it solves.

Think of your bushes like people. They have different needs at different times of the year. Some plants are like early birds, getting their main growth and flowering done in spring. Others are more like late bloomers, doing their thing when it’s warmer. Pruning at the wrong time can mess with their natural cycles, like trying to make someone eat dinner at breakfast time – it just doesn’t quite fit.

The key is to understand your plant’s growth habits and when it typically flowers. This information is your best guide for deciding if summer pruning is a good idea.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to consider:

• Spring-flowering shrubs: These guys usually bloom on old wood, meaning they set their flower buds the previous year. If you prune them too early in the summer, you might be cutting off next year’s blooms before they even have a chance to form. It’s generally better to trim these right after they finish flowering.
• Summer-flowering shrubs: These plants tend to bloom on new wood, which is growth from the current season. Pruning them in late winter or early spring, before they start growing, can actually encourage more blooms. Summer pruning for these might be more about shaping or removing dead bits.
• Non-flowering shrubs: These are often the most forgiving when it comes to summer trimming. You can usually shape them or reduce their size during the warmer months, but keep in mind that growth might be slower in very hot or dry conditions.

It’s easy to get caught up in wanting everything to look perfect all the time. But sometimes, nature knows best. Instead of sticking to a rigid schedule, pay attention to what your plants are actually telling you. Are branches rubbing? Is something dead or diseased? Those are usually good indicators that some attention is needed, regardless of the season.

When you do decide to prune in the summer, it’s usually best to stick to light trimming. Major cuts can stress a plant, especially when it’s already dealing with heat and potentially less water. Think of it as a tidy-up rather than a complete makeover. For more significant pruning, it’s often safer to wait for the late winter to early spring or fall, after the main growing season has ended.

Benefits and Risks: Can You Trim Bushes in the Summer?

So, can you actually trim bushes in the summer? The short answer is yes, but you’ve got to be smart about it. It’s not like winter pruning, where you can just go to town on everything. Summer pruning is more about finesse and specific goals.

The main benefit of summer pruning is that you can see exactly what you’re doing. When the leaves are all out, it’s way easier to spot overgrown branches, awkward shapes, or areas that are just getting too big and blocking pathways. You can really get a feel for the plant’s overall structure. Plus, if you’ve got a bush that’s growing like crazy, a little trim can help manage its size and keep it from looking unruly. It’s also a good time to remove those annoying water sprouts that pop up on fruit trees, which can steal energy from the main fruit production.

However, there are definitely risks involved. The biggest one is messing with the plant’s energy reserves. Bushes are busy growing and storing energy during the summer. Cutting too much can stress them out, especially if it’s hot or dry. This stress can make them more vulnerable to pests and diseases. You also risk cutting off flower buds for next year, particularly on plants that bloom on old wood. Think about lilacs or forsythias – if you cut them back too hard in summer, you might miss out on their spring flowers.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to keep in mind:

• Manage Size: Trim back branches that are growing too far out or becoming a nuisance.
• Improve Airflow: Thinning out dense foliage can help air circulate better, which is good for plant health.
• Remove Unwanted Growth: Get rid of dead, damaged, or diseased branches that could cause problems.
• Shape Correction: Make minor adjustments to improve the overall look of the bush.

When you’re pruning in the summer, think of it as a light touch-up rather than a major overhaul. It’s about making small, strategic cuts to maintain health and appearance, not about drastic reshaping. Always consider the plant’s specific needs and its flowering cycle before you pick up those shears.

For many plants, the best time for significant pruning is actually after they’ve finished their spring bloom. This allows you to enjoy the flowers and gives the plant time to set buds for the following year. Trying to do major pruning on these types of plants in the summer could mean sacrificing next year’s blooms. It’s a delicate balance, and knowing your plant is key. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution or consult with a professional about pruning trees and shrubs.

Best Practices When You Trim Bushes in the Summer

So, you’re thinking about giving your bushes a little trim in the summer. Totally understandable, especially if things are getting a bit wild. But before you grab those shears, let’s talk about doing it right. It’s not just about hacking away; it’s about being smart with your plants.

First off, only trim when it’s really necessary. Don’t just do it because it’s a Tuesday in July. Look for actual problems: branches rubbing together, dead bits, or maybe a branch is growing right into a walkway. If a bush is just getting a little too big, that’s a reason too, but be gentle.

Here are some pointers to keep in mind:

• Know your plant: This is huge. Some bushes, especially those that flower in spring, put out their flower buds on old wood. If you cut those back in summer, you’re cutting off next year’s blooms. Others flower bloom on new wood, so trimming them in summer might actually encourage more flowers. Do a quick search for your specific bush type.
• Less is more: Seriously, don’t go crazy. If you’re trimming, aim to remove no more than a third of the plant’s growth at any one time. Overdoing it can stress the plant, especially when it’s hot.
• Focus on the dead and damaged: Summer is a great time to clean up. Snip off any dead, diseased, or broken branches. This helps the plant stay healthy and prevents problems from spreading.
• Improve airflow: Sometimes, a light trim can open up the center of a bush. This lets air and sunlight get in, which is good for the plant’s overall health and can help prevent fungal issues.

When you’re trimming in the summer, think of it like tidying up rather than a major makeover. You’re aiming to maintain health and shape, not to force a whole new growth spurt. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and do less. Your future self (and your bushes) will thank you.

Avoid cutting into the main stems or removing large sections of healthy growth. If you’re dealing with a plant that flowers in spring, like lilacs or forsythias, it’s best to prune them right after they finish blooming, not in the middle of summer. For bushes that bloom later in the season, you might have a bit more flexibility, but still, be mindful of their natural cycles.

Signs Your Bushes Need Trimming During Summer

Sometimes, you just gotta trim. Even if it’s summer, your bushes might be telling you they need a little haircut. Don’t just go by the calendar; look for these clues.

• Overgrown branches are crowding walkways or blocking views. If you’re constantly bumping into a branch or can’t see out your window because of a shrub, it’s probably time to trim it back. This isn’t just about looks; it’s about the safety and usability of your yard.
• Dead or damaged branches are visible. Look for branches that are brown, brittle, or broken. These aren’t just unsightly; they can be a weak point for disease or pests to get into the rest of the plant.
• The bush looks generally messy or out of shape. If it’s gotten leggy, sparse in some areas, or just generally looks like it’s lost its form, a light trim can help tidy it up.
• Water sprouts or suckers are popping up. These are those fast-growing, often weak shoots that emerge from the base of the plant or along the main branches. They can drain energy from the main plant and make it look messy.

It’s important to remember that summer isn’t the ideal time for heavy pruning. You’re mostly looking for maintenance trims to address immediate issues or to keep things tidy. Big structural changes are usually best left for other times of the year.

Think of summer trimming as more of a ‘touch-up’ job rather than a complete overhaul. You’re addressing problems as they arise, not trying to reshape the entire plant.

Can You Trim Bushes in the Summer Without Harming Them?

So, can you trim bushes in the summer without causing them a heap of trouble? The short answer is yes, but you’ve got to be smart about it. It’s not like you can just go wild with the shears whenever the mood strikes. The key is understanding your specific plants and what they need during the warmer months.

When it comes to summer pruning, think of it more like a light tidy-up rather than a major overhaul. You’re not trying to reshape the whole bush or encourage a ton of new growth. Instead, you’re often just cleaning things up.

Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re wondering, “Is it ok to trim bushes in the summer?”

• Deadheading and Removing Spent Blooms: This is usually a safe bet for most flowering bushes. Removing faded flowers encourages the plant to put its energy into producing more blooms or developing seeds, depending on the plant. It also just makes things look neater.
• Trimming Back Overly Vigorous Growth: Some plants just get a bit out of hand in the summer heat. If a branch is growing into a walkway or crowding out a neighbour, a selective trim is often fine. Just don’t go overboard.
• Removing Dead or Damaged Branches: This is always a good idea, no matter the season. If you see a branch that’s broken, diseased, or just looks dead, snip it off. It prevents potential problems from spreading.

It’s really about being observant. If you’re asking, “Can I trim bushes in the summer?” and you’re looking at a plant that just finished its spring bloom, you might want to hold off. Those plants are often setting buds for next year. But if you’ve got a plant that blooms on new wood, or it’s just getting a bit wild, a little summer trim might be just what it needs. It’s a balancing act, for sure.

When you’re trimming in the summer, always aim to cut back to a healthy leaf or bud that’s facing outwards. This helps direct the plant’s energy and encourages a better shape as it grows. Avoid cutting into old, woody stems unless you’re removing a dead branch. Think of it as guiding the plant, not forcing it.

So, while the question “can you trim bushes in the summer?” has a “yes,” it comes with a big “but.” Be mindful of what you’re cutting and why. If you’re unsure, it’s often better to wait or do a little more research on that specific bush. And remember, “is it ok to trim bushes in the summer?” really depends on the bush!

When Can You Trim Bushes in the Summer for Best Results?

So, you’re wondering about trimming your bushes during the summer months. It’s a common question, and the answer isn’t a simple yes or no. The best time to trim in summer really depends on what kind of bush you have and why you’re trimming it.

Generally, if you have bushes that bloom in the spring, like lilacs or forsythias, you’ve missed the prime pruning window for the year. These plants set their flower buds on old wood, meaning they form them on the previous year’s growth. Trimming them after they bloom in spring is ideal. If you trim them in summer, you might be cutting off next year’s flowers. However, if you notice dead or damaged branches on these spring bloomers, it’s okay to carefully remove them anytime.

For bushes that flower later in the summer, like butterfly bushes or some hydrangeas, the story is a bit different. These often bloom on new wood, so pruning them in late winter or early spring before they start actively growing can actually encourage more blooms. If you must trim them in summer, do it after they’ve finished their main flowering period. This allows you to tidy them up without sacrificing their show.

Non-flowering shrubs offer more flexibility. You can usually trim these anytime during the summer to maintain their shape or size. Just be aware that growth might be slower during periods of extreme heat or drought, so don’t expect a rapid recovery. It’s often best to do any significant shaping earlier in the season.

Here’s a quick rundown:

• Spring-flowering shrubs: Trim after they finish blooming in spring. Summer trimming is generally for deadwood removal only.
• Summer-flowering shrubs: Best pruned in late winter/early spring. If summer trimming is needed, do it after flowering.
• Non-flowering shrubs: Can be trimmed throughout summer, but be mindful of heat stress.

When trimming in summer, always aim for light pruning. Major structural changes are best left for the dormant season or right after flowering for spring bloomers. Over-pruning during hot weather can stress plants, making them more susceptible to pests and diseases. It’s better to trim a little and often if needed, rather than taking off a large amount all at once.

If you’re unsure about a specific plant, it’s always a good idea to check its specific needs. Many resources can help you identify your bush type and its ideal pruning schedule.

Can You Trim Bushes in the Summer? Types of Bushes That Respond Well

So, you’re wondering if you can give your bushes a little trim in the summer. The short answer is yes, but it really depends on what kind of bush you have. Some plants are totally fine with a little summer haircut, while others might throw a fit. It’s all about knowing your plants.

Generally, summer pruning is best reserved for light shaping or removing dead or damaged branches, rather than major structural changes. Trying to do heavy pruning on the wrong type of shrub during the heat can stress it out, making it more vulnerable to pests and diseases. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t want to run a marathon on a super hot day without training, right? Your plants feel the same way.

Here are some types of bushes that tend to handle summer trimming pretty well, especially for maintenance tasks:

• Shrubs that bloom on new wood: These are often summer bloomers. Since they produce flowers on the current season’s growth, a light trim in summer won’t usually mess with their bloom cycle for the next year. Examples include many varieties of Butterfly Bush (Buddleja), Hydrangea paniculata, and some Spirea.
• Non-flowering shrubs: If your shrub’s main appeal isn’t its flowers (maybe it’s foliage color or shape), you often have more flexibility. You can trim these for size control or to maintain a neat appearance. Think of Boxwood or some types of Juniper.
• Evergreen shrubs: Many evergreens, like Arborvitae or some Pines, can be lightly pruned in summer to control their size or shape. Just be careful not to cut back into old wood where there are no needles or leaves, as they often won’t regrow from there.

When you’re trimming in summer, focus on the ‘why’. Are you removing a branch that’s growing into a walkway? Is a branch rubbing against another one? Or are you just trying to make the whole thing smaller? For minor touch-ups and tidying, many plants will be okay. But if you’re looking to significantly reduce size or change shape, it’s usually better to wait for the dormant season or right after flowering for spring bloomers.

It’s always a good idea to know when your specific shrub blooms. If it flowers in spring, it’s likely blooming on old wood (last year’s growth). Pruning it in summer after it’s done blooming is usually fine for maintenance, but heavy pruning might remove next year’s flower buds. Summer-blooming shrubs are generally more forgiving for light summer trims.

How Can You Trim Bushes in the Summer Safely?

So, you’re wondering if you can give your bushes a little trim in the summer without causing them harm. The short answer is yes, but you’ve got to be smart about it. It’s not like you can just go wild with the shears whenever the mood strikes. The key is to understand your specific plants and only prune when it’s truly necessary.

Think of it this way: summer is when many plants are busy doing their thing – growing, flowering, and getting ready for the next season. Yanking off too much foliage or cutting at the wrong time can really mess with their plans. For instance, if a bush flowers in the spring, it’s probably already set its buds for next year. Cutting those off now means no flowers next spring. Bummer.

Here are some pointers for trimming safely during the warmer months:

• Assess the Need: Don’t prune just because you feel like it. Look for actual problems like dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Are branches rubbing against each other? Is there a branch blocking a walkway? These are good reasons to trim.
• Know Your Blooms: If your bush flowers in the spring, prune it after it’s done blooming. If it flowers in the summer, you might be able to do a light trim in late winter or early spring before it really gets going, or right after it finishes its show.
• Be Selective: When you do prune, don’t go overboard. Aim to remove only about a third of the growth, focusing on the specific branches that need attention. It’s better to do a little bit now and a little bit later than to hack away a huge chunk.
• Watch for Stress: If it’s super hot and dry, your plants are already stressed. Adding pruning to their workload might be too much. It’s generally better to wait for cooler, more favorable conditions.

Summer pruning is best reserved for maintenance tasks. Think tidying up, removing problematic growth, or shaping a plant that’s getting a bit out of hand. Major structural pruning or significant size reduction is usually best left for the dormant season.

By paying attention to these details, you can keep your bushes looking good and healthy, even when you need to do a little summer upkeep.

Can You Trim Bushes in the Summer? Common Mistakes to Avoid

So, you’re thinking about giving your bushes a little trim in the summer. Totally understandable, especially if things are getting a bit wild. But hold on a sec, because jumping in without a plan can actually do more harm than good. Let’s talk about some common slip-ups people make.

One big mistake is pruning too much at once. It’s tempting to go all out, but remember, plants are working hard in the summer heat. Chopping off a huge chunk can stress them out. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t run a marathon right after being sick, and your bushes probably don’t want to be severely pruned when they’re already dealing with summer conditions.

Another common error is not knowing your plant. Different bushes have different needs. Pruning a spring-blooming bush after it’s already set its buds for next year is a recipe for no flowers next spring. It’s like accidentally throwing away next year’s Christmas presents.

Here are a few other things to watch out for:

• Ignoring the plant’s signals: If a bush looks stressed, wilted, or is showing signs of disease, summer pruning is probably not the best idea. Give it a chance to recover first.
• Using dull tools: This is a classic. Dull shears or saws tear the branches instead of making a clean cut. This leaves ragged edges that are harder for the plant to heal and can invite pests or diseases.
• Pruning for aesthetics alone: While making things look neat is the goal, sometimes a bush just needs a light tidy-up, not a complete reshaping. Over-pruning just to make it look a certain way can weaken the plant.
• Forgetting about the bloom time: This is a big one. If you want flowers next year, you need to know when your bush blooms. Pruning at the wrong time can mean sacrificing next season’s blooms.

It’s easy to get carried away with the shears, especially when you see growth happening. But remember that summer is a busy time for plants. They’re focused on growing, flowering, and producing fruit. Aggressive pruning can disrupt these processes, leading to weaker plants that are more susceptible to pests and diseases. Always aim for light, corrective pruning rather than major overhauls during the warmer months.

Finally, don’t forget about aftercare. Just like you’d need to drink more water after a workout, your newly pruned bushes might need a little extra attention, like consistent watering, especially if it’s dry out. Skipping this step can undo all your hard work.

Tools and Techniques to Use When Trimming Bushes in the Summer

Alright, so you’ve decided to do a little summer spruce-up on your bushes. That’s cool, but you gotta use the right gear and know-how so you don’t mess things up. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t use a butter knife to chop down a tree, right? Same idea here.

First off, let’s talk tools. For most light summer trimming, like tidying up stray branches or removing dead bits, a good pair of bypass hand pruners is your best friend. They make clean cuts, which helps the plant heal faster. If you’ve got thicker branches, maybe up to an inch or so, loppers are the way to go. They give you more leverage. For really big jobs, or if you’re shaping a hedge, a good set of shears or even a powered trimmer might be needed, but be extra careful with those – they can do a lot of damage if you’re not paying attention.

When it comes to techniques, the golden rule for summer is: less is often more. You’re not doing a major overhaul here. Focus on what’s called ‘maintenance pruning’. This means:

• Removing dead, damaged, or diseased branches: This is a no-brainer. Get rid of anything that looks sickly to prevent it from spreading.
• Thinning out crowded areas: If branches are rubbing together or the center of the bush is too dense, a few strategic cuts can improve air flow and let light in. This helps prevent fungal issues.
• Deadheading spent flowers: For flowering shrubs, snipping off old blooms encourages more flowers and keeps the plant looking tidy.
• Controlling size and shape: If a branch is growing way out of bounds or making the bush look lopsided, you can trim it back. Just try to make cuts just above a leaf or a side branch that’s pointing in the direction you want new growth to go.

Always make your cuts at a slight angle, just above a bud or a healthy side branch. This helps water run off and encourages new growth in the right direction.

Remember, summer is a time when many plants are actively growing or have set their buds for next year. Aggressive cutting can stress them out, reduce flowering, or even harm new growth. So, be gentle. Think of it as a light trim, not a haircut.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to aim for:

Tool	Best For
Hand Pruners	Small branches (up to 3/4 inch)
Loppers	Medium branches (up to 1.5 inches)
Hedge Shears	Formal hedges, light shaping
Pole Saw/Pruner	High branches, reaching awkward spots

Don’t forget to clean your tools after you’re done. A little rubbing alcohol or bleach solution will keep them from spreading any potential diseases from one plant to another. It’s a small step, but it makes a big difference for your plants’ health.

Aftercare Tips Following Summer Bush Pruning

So, you’ve done some summer pruning. Great! Now, what’s next? Giving your bushes a little extra attention after you’ve trimmed them can make a big difference in how well they recover and continue to thrive. Think of it like a little spa treatment for your plants.

First off, make sure they get enough water. Summer can be dry, and pruning can stress them out a bit, so consistent watering is key. Don’t drown them, of course, but keep the soil nicely moist. A good soak every now and then is usually better than a little sprinkle every day. You want to encourage those roots to grow deeper.

Also, keep an eye out for any signs of stress. This could be wilting leaves, yellowing, or even just looking generally droopy. If you see this, it might mean you pruned a bit too much, or the weather is just too harsh. The goal is to help them bounce back, not push them over the edge.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to do:

• Water Wisely: Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Water deeply rather than frequently.
• Mulch Matters: Adding a layer of mulch around the base of the bushes helps retain soil moisture and keeps roots cool. Just make sure to keep the mulch a little bit away from the actual stems to prevent rot.
• Monitor for Pests and Diseases: Pruning can sometimes open up plants to unwelcome visitors. Check regularly for any signs of trouble and address them promptly.
• Avoid Further Stress: Try not to fertilize immediately after pruning, as this can encourage new growth that might not have time to harden off before cooler weather arrives. Let the plant focus on healing first.

Remember that pruning, even when done carefully, creates wounds. While many plants can seal these up quickly, especially in warmer weather, it’s always a good idea to make your cuts clean and at a slight angle. This helps water run off, reducing the chance of rot and infections.

Finally, resist the urge to do more pruning unless absolutely necessary. Let your bushes settle in and recover from the trimming you’ve already done. Patience is a gardener’s best friend, especially when it comes to helping plants recover after a trim.

After pruning your trees in the summer, it’s important to give them a little extra care. Proper aftercare helps your trees recover and stay healthy. Make sure they get enough water, especially during hot spells, and keep an eye out for any signs of stress. A little attention now means stronger, happier trees later. For more expert advice on keeping your trees in top shape, visit our website today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I really trim my bushes in the summer?

Yes, you can trim bushes in the summer, but it’s important to be careful. It’s not the best time for big trims, but small touch-ups or removing dead branches are usually okay. Think of it as a light haircut, not a major style change.

When is the best time to prune bushes?

Generally, winter is the best time for most bushes because they are resting. For bushes that bloom in spring, it’s best to trim them right after they finish flowering. Summer-flowering bushes are usually best trimmed in late winter or early spring before they start growing.

Why should I be careful about trimming in the summer?

Trimming too much in the summer can stress your bushes, especially when it’s hot. It can also interfere with their blooming or new growth. You don’t want to cut off flower buds that are forming for next year, or encourage new growth that won’t survive the winter.

What are the benefits of trimming bushes in the summer?

Summer trimming can help you see the bush’s shape better since it’s full of leaves, making it easier to trim for looks. It’s also good for controlling bushes that have grown too big or are getting in the way. Plus, you can remove any dead or damaged branches that you spot.

Are there any bushes that I absolutely shouldn’t trim in the summer?

You should be extra careful with bushes that bloom in the spring, like lilacs or forsythias. They often set their flower buds for the next year right after they bloom. Trimming them too late in the summer could mean fewer flowers next spring.

What are some signs that my bushes might need trimming in the summer?

Look for branches that are dead, broken, or rubbing against each other. If a bush is growing too large and blocking a path or window, a light trim might be needed. Also, if you see water sprouts (fast-growing, weak shoots), those can be removed.

What are the biggest mistakes to avoid when trimming in summer?

The main mistakes are trimming too much at once, cutting off healthy branches that are about to bloom, or trimming bushes that are already stressed from heat and drought. Always remember to trim only what’s necessary.

How much should I trim if I do it in the summer?

Less is more! Aim to remove no more than one-third of the branches, and often much less. Focus on removing dead, diseased, or damaged parts. If you’re unsure, it’s better to trim a little than too much.