| Six years ago, I re-landscaped my property. I included four Blue Point Junipers whose growth was to be 6-8 feet. they are now l0-12 feet tall and totally out of proportion with the other shrubs. (1) When is the best time to prune and thin them so new growth is not encouraged? (2) If I cut the tall tip, will it encourage two new shoots? (3)Is there any safe way to cut down the height without sacrificing the pyramidal shape? (4) Since there will be lots to prune, can I use a hedge trimmer? thank you. (I live in Zone 7) |
| "Blue Point" is listed as growing to 7 to 8 feet but does indeed grow larger as you have discovered. Junipers can certainly be pruned, but unfortunately there is no way to discourage new growth by pruning. They are vigorous plants! Cutting the leader will encourage additional leaders to form. If you attempt to shorten it, you will end up needing to prune the sides as well. If your hedge trimmer is a sturdy one and made for the branch diameter involved, then go ahead and use it. Alternatively you may want to replace them because this will be an ongoing pruning job to keep them at a smaller size. I'm sorry about your shrubs. |
