August is peak time to prune these food-producing plants not for looks, but to boost airflow, reduce disease, and push energy into more fruit. Heres what to trim and why it matters 1. Tomatoes Why: Improves airflow, reduces disease, and boosts fruit size Prune: Suckers between stem and branch, yellowing lower leaves 2. Peppers Bell & Chili Why: Encourages bushier growth and stronger fruit set Prune: Top when 68″ tall; remove overcrowded inner leaves later 3. Eggplants Why: Fewer fruits, but larger and healthier Prune: Bottom leaves and suckers once fruits start to form 4. Grapevines Why: Boosts grape quality and airflow Prune: After fruit set, remove excess vines and side growth 5. Strawberries June-bearing Why: Strengthens crowns and improves berry yield Prune: Runners after harvest; old leaves in fall or spring 6. Cucumbers esp. vertical Why: Promotes airflow and productive vines Prune: Lower leaves and side shoots below first 57 nodes 7. Pole Beans Why: Directs energy into pods, especially in tight spaces Prune: Top growth at trellis height; thin out crowded vines 8. Fruit Trees Peach, Apple, etc. Why: Shapes canopy, prevents disease, improves light access Prune: In dormancycut crossing branches and weak stems 9. Basil also mint, oregano Why: Prevents flowering, keeps it leafy Prune: Pinch tops and flower buds regularly