Best time to prune back Yew bushes in MI - Ask Extension
I have 3 large yew bushes in the front of my house (north side). In the past, I used a hedge trimmer to shape them like cubes. They are now a bit over...
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Best time to prune back Yew bushes in MI #868394
Asked May 14, 2024, 1:09 PM EDT
I have 3 large yew bushes in the front of my house (north side). In the past, I used a hedge trimmer to shape them like cubes. They are now a bit overwhelming so I feel I need to do something more drastic to get them back under control. I don't know the right time to do so in MI. Right now I can see new growth coming in.
Clinton County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello -
Arborvitae, junipers, yews, and hemlocks grow continuously throughout the growing season. They can be pruned any time through the middle of summer. Even though these plants will tolerate heavy shearing, their natural form is usually most desirable, so prune only to correct growth defects.
For renewal pruning for older or overgrown shrubs:
Every year, remove up to one-third of the oldest, thickest stems or trunks, taking them right down to the ground. This will encourage the growth of new stems from the roots.
Once there are no longer any thick, overgrown trunks left, switch to standard pruning as needed.
This information was taken from the following website: https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/pruning-trees-and-shrubs#evergreens-1336764
I hope this helps!
Arborvitae, junipers, yews, and hemlocks grow continuously throughout the growing season. They can be pruned any time through the middle of summer. Even though these plants will tolerate heavy shearing, their natural form is usually most desirable, so prune only to correct growth defects.
For renewal pruning for older or overgrown shrubs:
Every year, remove up to one-third of the oldest, thickest stems or trunks, taking them right down to the ground. This will encourage the growth of new stems from the roots.
Once there are no longer any thick, overgrown trunks left, switch to standard pruning as needed.
This information was taken from the following website: https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/pruning-trees-and-shrubs#evergreens-1336764
I hope this helps!
