How to prune pyramidalis arborvitae

Late winter to early spring before growth starts, with a follow-up trim in midsummer if used as a formal hedge. Shear the sides and top with hedge shears, tapering slightly wider at the base for even light penetration. Cut only into green-leafed growth — never back to bare brown stems. Remove dead interior foliage by hand.

One to two times per year for formal hedge use; as needed for informal screening. Pyramidalis Arborvitae is a vigorous, tall columnar form used frequently as a screen or hedge. It tolerates annual shearing to control height and maintain the pyramidal outline, but always cut only into green growth. Avoid cutting into bare brown wood, which will leave permanent dead patches.

Shear the sides and top with hedge shears, tapering slightly wider at the base for even light penetration. Cut only into green-leafed growth — never back to bare brown stems. Remove dead interior foliage by hand.