How to Prune an Evergreen

Conifers and most broad-leafed trees reward homeowners with leaves that persist year-round. Proper care of such trees require pruning to help the plants stay healthy and reach their growing potential. Use the right tools and invest a little time to give these evergreens the conditioning they need. With successful pruning, your evergreens will reward you with years of successful growth.

Things You'll Need

• Hand saw
• Pole saw

Instructions

1. Prune sun-loving evergreen annually; shade tolerant evergreens are more tolerant of frequent cuttings. When initially planting a tree, be sure to give it its first pruning. This is necessary to bring the branch structure in balance with the remaining root structure. Waiting to prune large limbs is much more difficult and also alters the appearance and health of the tree. Never top an evergreen as a means of maintenance. Topping a tree opens the tree to internal decay, disease and insects.

2. Prune dead, diseased or damaged branches at any time. Make thinning cuts into healthy wood when pruning diseased branches. (Clean cutting tools in between cuts with alcohol to prevent spreading disease to another area of the tree or shrub.) Don’t prune evergreens in late winter. Pruning stimulates growth and it can be easily damaged by cold temperatures and harsh winds. Don’t prune an evergreen when it is actively growing and producing vast amounts of sap. Growth spurts generally occur in early spring and again in summer.

3. Take note of how the plant grows before making your first cut. Consider the objective of pruning such as the desired shape and size. Doing so will help your tree or shrub to maintain a natural look, not sheared. Consider the mature size of an ever-green before pruning. Be careful not to spoil the mature look of a tree. Do not use hedge shears for pruning, because they do not cleanly cut branches.

Tips & Warnings

• Hire a professional to prune evergreens near power lines.