how and when to prune christmas jewel holly

Answer #1 · Maple Tree's Answer · Hi Catherine-The best time to prune your holly is in early spring or summer. The plant will send out new growth from just below the pruning cuts. Because of this waiting until any expected freezing temperatures have passed is best so that this new growth is not damaged. When pruning always cut out any dead or damaged stems. Also cut out any stems that are touching or growing over another that could cause damage to a stem. You can also prune your plant to a desired shape or size at this time. It is best not to prune more than 25 % of the plant at any one time. If the plant needs to be reduced in size I would do this over a period of a couple of years. I noted a link below to an article that will give you some information on pruning hollies.

http://www.gardenality.com/Articles/735/How-To-Info/Pruning/How-To-Prune-A-Holly-Bush-Or-Tree/default.html

Please don't hesitate to ask any other questions you may have.

John)