David Hurrion
UK Gardening Expert • Plantsman & Horticulturist • Writer & Speaker
With over 50 years of practical experience in gardening and horticulture, David Hurrion has a wealth of hints, tips and inspiration to share. As a trained horticulturist, teacher and journalist, David has spent a lifetime communicating about his passion for plants and growing, including many years at BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine as Gardening Editor, then Deputy Editor and Associate Editor, writing books and magazine articles, and appearing on radio and TV as an expert guest.
He continues to present and host on stage at BBC Gardeners’ World Live, as well as the Spring and Autumn Fairs. In addition, David is a Show Judge for the Royal Horticultural Society at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show, amongst others, and is a member of the RHS Tender Plant Expert Group.
Latest advice
When and how to prune apple and pear trees
Prune young apple and pear trees in winter, between leaf fall and bud burst (roughly November to February), to build an open, balanced framework. Once the framework is created, most pruning is done in summer to promote flowering and fruiting and to restrict size.
How to prune climbing roses
Prune repeat-flowering climbing roses in late winter, late February to early March. Keep the long main stems as a permanent framework, tie them in as near to horizontal as you can, and cut the flowering side shoots back to two or three buds.
When should I prune my roses?
For most roses, prune in late winter, from late February into early March, when the buds are just starting to swell but growth hasn't got going. Ramblers and once-flowering climbers are the exception: prune those in late summer, straight after they flower.