How to prune deodar cedar

Late winter to early spring before new growth begins; dead wood any time. Remove dead or structurally weak branches at the collar with sharp tools. If a competing leader develops, eliminate the weaker one at its base promptly to maintain a single dominant stem. Never stub-cut side branches or shear the canopy — Deodar Cedar will not regenerate from leafless old wood and will be permanently disfigured.

Rarely; annual check, structural correction on young trees only. Deodar Cedar has a graceful, weeping, naturally layered form that is best left unpruned. Remove dead or crossing branches cleanly. Retain the nodding leading shoot — staking a replacement leader if the original is lost preserves the characteristic drooping tip. Shearing destroys the ornamental form and is strongly discouraged for landscape specimens.

Remove dead or structurally weak branches at the collar with sharp tools. If a competing leader develops, eliminate the weaker one at its base promptly to maintain a single dominant stem. Never stub-cut side branches or shear the canopy — Deodar Cedar will not regenerate from leafless old wood and will be permanently disfigured.