When winter comes to an end, and all threat of frost has passed, you can safely prune your perennial and winter-flowering plants. Pruning gives you an opportunity to shape your plants and keep them to a desirable size, while giving the plants a chance to recoup and regrow. Timing is important here, as pruning encourages new growth, and if done too soon, plants will produce sensitive new shoots that can be damaged by the cold. On the other hand, pruning too late into the growing season can reduce vigor and leave your plants without flower buds. Be careful not to over-prune! Removing dead leaves and branches, wayward stems, and spent flowers can often be plenty to keep your plants looking their best all though the year.