And it is not an easy one. Unfortunately there is no comprehensive answer but there is a general rule of thumb. For major pruning, if it is a spring flowering plant, prune it after it flowers. If it is a summer flowering plant prune right before the new growth in early spring.

When it comes to bulbs, perennials, and annuals each type can have very specific 'best times' to plant, so it is best to research each one to be sure. When dealing with shrubs and trees the answer is easy... FALL!!!! In the fall most plants go dormant. They either loose their leaves, slow down production of leaves, or stop all together. But unseen to the eye their roots will continue to grow. That way if you plant in the fall you can be rooted in and ready for the surge of energy needed for spring blooming.