Pruning Ornamental Shrub - Ask Extension
We had two shrubs planted at the back of our house 10 years ago and they have grown beyond what is a manageable. We are interested in cutting them bac...
Knowledgebase
Pruning Ornamental Shrub #884416
Asked September 07, 2024, 4:13 PM EDT
We had two shrubs planted at the back of our house 10 years ago and they have grown beyond what is a manageable. We are interested in cutting them back extensively but want to make sure we don't harm the bush in doing so. Can you recommend proper techniques and timing so as to minimize damage? I have attached an image. Unfortunately we do not remember the specific name of the shrub that we purchased.
Stevens County Minnesota
Expert Response
In general don’t take off more than 30% in one season. Don’t prune in late summer because the shrub should be going dormant and pruning stimulates growth. Please see the link for more advice and a video.
https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/pruning-trees-and-shrubs#:~:text=Remove%20suckers%20coming%20up%20from,to%20avoid%20tearing%20the%20bark.
https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/pruning-trees-and-shrubs#:~:text=Remove%20suckers%20coming%20up%20from,to%20avoid%20tearing%20the%20bark.
