How to prune parsons juniper

Early spring before new growth begins, or early autumn. Use loppers or pruners to remove dead stems at ground level. Thin interior congestion by cutting selected branches back to a foliage-bearing lateral. Avoid shearing, which creates a dense crust of dead interior foliage.

Annually for light tidying; rejuvenation thinning every 3–5 years. Parsons Juniper is a low, spreading shrub that tolerates moderate pruning. Remove dead or winter-damaged branches in spring and selectively thin overcrowded stems to maintain an open, layered form. Junipers regenerate from wood that retains some foliage, so cut back to a live lateral — never to bare, leafless stems.

Use loppers or pruners to remove dead stems at ground level. Thin interior congestion by cutting selected branches back to a foliage-bearing lateral. Avoid shearing, which creates a dense crust of dead interior foliage.