Pruning guide
How to prune incense cedar
More incense cedar care
Pruning incense cedar — FAQ
When should I prune incense cedar?
Winter (dormant season), before spring growth. Cut dead or diseased branches cleanly back to the trunk or a healthy lateral. To preserve the natural columnar form, remove competing leaders promptly, leaving the strongest. Thin no more than one-third of branches at any one time if canopy lightening is needed.
How often does incense cedar need pruning?
As needed (rarely beyond removing dead wood). Incense Cedar is a low-maintenance conifer that rarely needs pruning. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches during dormancy. If the central leader is lost, select one replacement and remove rivals. Avoid pruning when wood-boring insects are active in summer. Thin canopy sparingly to let light into interior growth.
How do you prune incense cedar?
Cut dead or diseased branches cleanly back to the trunk or a healthy lateral. To preserve the natural columnar form, remove competing leaders promptly, leaving the strongest. Thin no more than one-third of branches at any one time if canopy lightening is needed.