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Pruning tall black chokeberry shrub? #873399

Asked June 17, 2024, 9:30 AM EDT

Looking to cut back 7 ft tall chokeberry shrubs with tall canopies.

Dakota County Minnesota

Expert Response

You can trim them back now but don't wait much longer as pruning will encourage new growth which will not be winter hardy.  Depending on the look you want, you can either cut the thickest stems to the ground, allowing for new growth from soil level.  If you are trying for a tree, then cut back the newer thinner branches.  The recommended time to prune is immediately after they bloom as they will be setting next spring's blossoms at that time.  If you prune later, you will be losing the fruit.  https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/pruning-trees-and-shrubs
Barbara, Anoka County MG, TCA Replied June 17, 2024, 8:18 PM EDT
Thank you. I will wait until next spring and take them down to the ground.

On Mon, Jun 17, 2024, 7:18 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied June 17, 2024, 9:30 PM EDT
You do not need to cut them to the ground.  You can cut some of the larger stems to the ground but just trim back the rest by 1/3 or so or at least to a more manageable size.
Barbara, Anoka County MG, TCA Replied June 18, 2024, 11:00 PM EDT

Thanks for the info.


On Tue, Jun 18, 2024, 10:00 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied June 19, 2024, 7:32 AM EDT

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