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PRUNING SPARTAN JUNIPERS #814172

Asked October 13, 2022, 3:46 PM EDT

I have 15 Spartan Junipers that were planted 4 years ago (May), and have reached a height of about 6 feet. Each summer they have a bunch of new growth sprigs on top, and I was told by Bachmans to trim the tops to a point to avoid snow collecting - WHICH I HAVE BEEN DOING. My question is as follows: is it too late in the year to trim back that new growth on the top, to again shape into a point? Thank you. Tony Chasensky 1475 Chatsworth St. N. Saint Paul, MN

Ramsey County Minnesota

Expert Response

Junipers need little to no pruning. The best time is early spring prior to new growth.
The best pruning method is to cut individual branches back to an upward growing side branch.


Pat M MN master gardener and TCA Replied October 13, 2022, 5:54 PM EDT

I understand the best time to trim Junipers is late winter, early spring.  I’m asking if trimming them now is too late in the season and would be difficult for them to get through the winter. 
I don’t want to let them grow free without trimming.  I’m trying to control their height and have them build bulk up lower to provide privacy. 
My desire to trim the tops now is to avoid snow piling up and causing damage.  Is trimming tops now a bad idea?  

Tony

The Question Asker Replied October 13, 2022, 7:05 PM EDT
Late fall pruning delays dormancy at every pruning wound. If winter cold comes suddenly, it can damage the Juniper trees.
Pat M MN master gardener and TCA Replied October 13, 2022, 8:28 PM EDT

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