Pruning approach based on the natural growth shape of a shrub
Broadly, shrubs can be classified as mounding, caning and tree-like. The amount and approach to pruning for these natural shapes is quite different.
Mounding Shrubs
Locate the longest, thickest and badly formed branches. Prune these branches two inches to one foot below the top of the shrub and cut to a side branch or bud, if possible. These shrubs often benefit from taking out some of the old canes to their base. This opens up and renews the shrub. Any dead and broken wood should also be removed.
Examples of mounding shrubs:
- Buxus (Boxwood)
- Berberis (Barberries)
- Euonymus alatus (Burning Bush)
- Spiraea (some are cane-like)
- Ilex (Holly)
Caning Shrubs
Cane shrubs grow from long shoots from the base. Remove all dead, broken and misshapen branches. Thin out up to 1/3 of the oldest canes by cutting right to the ground. Remove any rubbing or crossing branches. Remove anything hanging on the ground. Tidy up or shape by cutting back a few of the branches for height if so desired. These shrubs can be pruned aggressively, they will come back. They can be rejuvenated by cutting them back to within 8-12 inches of the ground.
Examples of cane shrubs:
- Roses
- Mahonia (Oregon Grape Holly)
- Kerria
- Weigela
- Caryopteris (Bluebeard or Blue Mist Shrub)
- Cornus sericea (Red-twig and yellow-twig dogwood)
- Buddleia Ninebark
- Prunus cistena (Sandcherry) also tree-like but beware large branches can break
- Hydrangea
- Forsythia
- Deutzia
Tree-like Shrubs
Typically larger sized shrubs growing from central leader or clump shaped. Remove all dead, broken and misshapen branches. Remove suckers, crossing branches and double leaders. Cut back or remove branches hanging on ground or branches growing down or back into the centre of the shrub.
Examples of tree-like shrubs
- Hibiscus Syriacus (Rose of Sharon)
- Syringa (Lilac)
- Amelanchier
- Viburnums
- Hamamelis (Witchhazel)
- Magnolia
- Cornus (large tree form)
Late Spring Pruning
Summer and Fall Pruning
More How To Garden Topics
Plant Profiles