Pruning should be delayed until the plant or plants begin to produce new growth that will indicate where growth has not been injured. Although January is barely over, February and March can be subject to cold fronts bringing in late frosts or even weather that may cause some damage. Most people will rake fallen leaves and bag them for the garbage collector. Just a reminder that trees in forests survive on the decaying leaves that contain fertilizer as well as various trace elements. Use your fallen leaves for mulches, especially on azaleas and other acid loving plants.
Mulches aid in conserving water as well as preventing weeds from growing in perennial plant beds.
Ornamental hedges of Ligustrum, Viburnum, Photinia and Ixora will welcome a mulch of fallen leaves. Gardening can be fun if you understand the requirements of Florida plants. Many gardeners try to garden as they did in the northern climate. Remember, you are in Florida,where plants are different and have a longer growing season. Because of this condition your plants need different care than those in the north, where they go dormant for several months of the year.