How to Prune a Crimson Pygmy Barberry

Crimson pygmy barberries are popular landscaping shrubs with leaves that turn burgundy in the fall. They are good border plants, but don't put them in high-traffic areas where their brittle branches can be damaged by passersby. If they overgrow their location, you will need to prune back their thorny branches. Any diseased or damaged branches should also be removed. Prune barberries in late winter or early spring.

Things You'll Need

• Pruners
• Loppers
• Towel
• Gloves
• Garbage bag

Instructions

1. Dress in a long-sleeved shirt, gloves and closed-toe shoes to prevent thorns from harming your skin.

2. Cut off stems the diameter of a pencil with sharp pruners or loppers.

3. Cut out one-fifth of the stems at the base of the plant. Cut back to a healthy bud or branch that is facing outward.

4. Cut off any tangled, damaged or dead branches.

5. Make a 45-degree cut to remove any overgrowth or branches that are crowding ornamental plants and flowers.

Tips & Warnings

• Inspect the barberry for rust, a fungal disease; signs are discolored leaves and severe defoliation. If you see the signs, dip your pruning tool in a mixture of denatured alcohol and water after each lateral cut to avoid spreading disease.

• Dispose of diseased branches and leaves in a plastic bag.

References

• Pruning Shrubs
• Information on Barberry Diseases