Pruning guide
How to prune eastern red cedar
More eastern red cedar care
Pruning eastern red cedar — FAQ
When should I prune eastern red cedar?
Late winter before new growth, or early summer after the spring flush hardens. Prune dead or rubbing branches with clean secateurs back to a healthy lateral. For hedging, shear outer growth lightly — always leave green foliage on every cut branch.
How often does eastern red cedar need pruning?
Once or twice annually; remove dead wood as needed. Eastern red cedar tolerates light pruning well. Remove dead or crossing branches and trim for shape in late winter or early summer. It can be sheared as a windbreak hedge. Avoid cutting back into bare wood with no foliage — like most junipers, it will not regenerate from leafless old growth.
How do you prune eastern red cedar?
Prune dead or rubbing branches with clean secateurs back to a healthy lateral. For hedging, shear outer growth lightly — always leave green foliage on every cut branch.