Pruning can be scary, which is why many novices to landscaping avoid it. Let's face it: Once you lop a limb off, there's no changing your mind, right? Reading this guide to pruning trees and shrubs may help alleviate your fears. Texas A&M offers an A-Z of pruning trees and shrubs, beginning with why to prune at all. Pruning tools and techniques are discussed. Included are pruning tips for specific shrubs, including when to prune them.