How to prune oriental arborvitae

Early spring, before new growth begins. Trim only the current season's new growth to lightly tighten the form. Remove dead or crossing stems cleanly at their origin. Never cut back into old brown wood — Oriental Arborvitae cannot regenerate foliage from bare stems.

Annually (lightly) or as needed. Oriental Arborvitae tolerates very light pruning but does not regenerate well from old bare wood, since all foliage sits toward the outer canopy. Ideally, site it where minimal pruning is needed. Remove dead or crossing branches in spring; avoid cutting back into brown interior wood, which will not resprout.

Trim only the current season's new growth to lightly tighten the form. Remove dead or crossing stems cleanly at their origin. Never cut back into old brown wood — Oriental Arborvitae cannot regenerate foliage from bare stems.