How to Trim Evergreen Shrubs

Overview

Evergreen shrubs are common shrubs that you will find around the home and yard in the United States. Evergreen shrubs have many uses including privacy screening, accenting and ornamental planting. There are many different species of shrubs available. Evergreen shrubs require regular maintenance in order to keep them looking their best. If an evergreen shrub has been neglected for a period of time, it can be difficult or even impossible to prune. Therefore, it is imperative to trim evergreen shrubs regularly.

Step 1

Identify what kind of evergreen shrub you have. There are three basic types of evergreen shrubs: awl-like, needle-like, and scale-like. Their classification is based on how their needles appear.

Step 2

Reduce the bulkiness of the evergreen shrub in March or April by selectively removing a few branches throughout the shrub using your pruning shears.

Step 3

Prune your evergreen shrub in June or July. This is after the majority of the growth has occurred but also before the shrub has set new buds for the next year. Some species, like pines, will not grow any further from a specific branch if the bud is pruned off.

Step 4

Cut the branches that you want to remove deep into the evergreen shrub. The other branches will then fill in the empty space and become more robust. This will lead to a healthier shrub.