Pruning topiary shapes

Although tempting, avoid pruning the new lime-coloured shoots which grow out beyond the dark green shape of the topiary as this will bruise the foliage.

Wait to prune until mid-June when the foliage is hard and leathery and then later again in the summer if needed.

Prune back to the original shape such as a cone, balls or spiral by eye using a sharp pair of hand held shears. Take your time and regularly stand back to double check your work.

If neglected, most evergreen plants, especially yew, box, and holly, will respond well to hard pruning. Hard prune in early to mid-spring, feed and mulch immediately after pruning, and water regularly in prolonged dry periods. Depending upon the species, it may take a 2-3 year for a plant to grow back to its former shape.