How to Trim Italian Cypress

Overview

The statuesque Italian cypress is an ideal tree to plant in rows, since it is tall, narrow and grows straight up--to a maximum height of about 70 feet. Think of it as a lush green column. Indeed, landscape architects often use Italian cypress trees to frame entryways, line driveways or even serve as property dividers. However, maintaining that neat, plume-like look requires regular trimming.

Step 1

Prune the branches from the bottom up, moving around the tree in a clockwise motion. Only trim off branches and shoots that are sticking out from the natural plume-like shape of the three. Be careful not to cut deep into the tree to avoid exposing the inner branches.Continue pruning until you reach eye level.

Step 2

Set up a ladder at the base of the tree about half an arm's length from the trunk so you can easily trim the branches.

Step 3

Continue pruning, this time focusing on one side. Work your way up the ladder, removing only stragglers. Focus on maintaining the tree's normal shape.

Step 4

When you have completed one side, move the ladder and resume pruning from bottom to top. Keep doing this until you have pruned the entire tree.