How to prune flaky juniper

Late winter to early spring, or early summer after spring flush. Remove dead wood cleanly to the nearest healthy lateral with sharp secateurs. For shape, snip only the growing tips — always leave foliage on any stem you cut.

As needed; annual light tidy if desired. Flaky juniper (Juniperus squamata) is a slow-growing ornamental that needs minimal pruning. Remove dead or damaged branches to a healthy fork at any time. Light tip-pruning can maintain shape but is rarely necessary. As with all junipers, avoid cutting back into bare, leafless wood — regrowth from old wood is very poor.

Remove dead wood cleanly to the nearest healthy lateral with sharp secateurs. For shape, snip only the growing tips — always leave foliage on any stem you cut.