Conifer trees have only one main "leader" or trunk that extends all the way to the top. This article was co-authored by Lauren Kurtz. For example, if the length of a protruding branch is 24 inches (61 cm), you should prune 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) off of the branch. Junipers can be trimmed any time from spring until the first freeze of the year. It will survive, but it will be weakened. Every day at wikiHow, we work hard to give you access to instructions and information that will help you live a better life, whether it's keeping you safer, healthier, or improving your well-being. Cloud Pruning a Conifer: When I first moved into my house a few years ago there was only one thing that annoyed me about the place. There are many different species, but they all have certain characteristics in common, including a narrow shape, fragrant blue fruits, and unique branch texture. In this case, it’s okay to cut into the dead zone because the branches are already dead, and there will be more space for new growth to expand on the outer area of the bush. Doing the cloud pruning: step by step Step 1 . The best fast growing trees for a natural fence→, Evergreen shrubs with tiny flowers and red berries→. Doing this helps to prevent disease in the bush and allows more light to reach the buds at junctions toward the center of the tree. Use pruners and the hand saw to cut and trim all twigs and foliage off the chosen branches. It's best not to cut older juniper branches if you can avoid it. Do not use wire to do this unless you are also using tree straps around the branches. Junipers need little if any pruning. If you can’t find a junction, simply cut the branch to match the overall shape and height of the bush. Michigan State University; Conifer Corner; Nicholas Gooch, et.al. After a year, you will need to remove the ties, and the branches should remain in place without the ties. If you've decided you definitely want to proceed then start by drawing the outline of the existing hedge. Amid the current public health and economic crises, when the world is shifting dramatically and we are all learning and adapting to changes in daily life, people need wikiHow more than ever. This video is about cloud pruning - how to create a shape and how to maintain it afterwards. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 44,999 times. Cloud pruning is a traditional Japanese method of pruning trees, typically used in the art of bonsai, but also frequently seen in landscapes all over the world. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Prune evergreens according to their growth habits. Crucial Instructions to Take Care of the Hollywood Juniper Tree. Sometimes, if the juniper is very mature, the dead zone will be extremely large. Examine the plant for long branches that originate under other branches and can be removed without leaving a bare spot. Another type of pruning is the formation of a cloud or as it is called Niwaki. Pruning Junipers. This will help us to properly prune to enhance the appearance of our flower bed.". Get your tools ready. Step 2. Early spring is the ideal time to do this. Use pruners and the hand saw to cut and trim all twigs and foliage off the chosen branches. Never use shears to shape the tree as they can damage the branches and stop growth. It’s important to work before new growth begins so that you don’t have to worry about damaging new branches. Tree ties tend to be sturdier than twine, but they’re more expensive. % of people told us that this article helped them. Snip off new growth that may appear on the trunk and branches of the juniper, using hand shears. Wichita Blue Juniper (Juniperus scopulorum) is a popular plant for hedges and borders because it holds its shape naturally without much pruning. Caring for it can be a real challenge. Proper juniper pruning will prevent irreversible damage to the health and beauty of your specimen. Lauren has worked for Aurora, Colorado managing the Water-Wise Garden at Aurora Municipal Center for the Water Conservation Department. Hedges also surround my yard, but it is formed of thuja.eval(ez_write It depends on the age of the tree, but varies between 0.5 and 7.6 m (1.6 and 25 ft). Create a layered effect by pruning the length of the branches from top to bottom – shorter branches on the top of the juniper and longer branches on the bottom of the juniper. How to Prune Conifers. Cloud pruning, when done right, creates some beautiful results. How to Prune an Overgrown Juniper While overgrown juniper pruning has its limits, it is possible to trim your plant down to a more manageable shape. While pruning is not necessary for good health, people do prune junipers occasionally to keep them compact, maintain a desired shape or increase the density of foliage. But while hair will grow back in a couple of weeks, junipers in Utah grow only in the spring. Cloud pruning is a traditional Japanese method of pruning trees, typically used in the art of bonsai, but also frequently seen in landscapes all over the world. Don't cut into the collar, but angle the cut right above it. Ideally the cuts should be made when the plant is young as the pruning cuts will disappear with age leaving behind attractive bark. Winter pruning is a great option because it ensures that the plant is pruned before new growth begins. Conifers are trees and shrubs that have needle-type leaves and produce cones instead of flowers. Linnie, do catch up….Cloud computing is SO yesterday. Be careful not to trim the branches too close to the center of the tree! Beneath the oute… Junipers trees are a type of hardy evergreen that can grow almost anywhere in the world. After you trim the branches to the junctions, keep an eye out for new growth. Then draw, in strong simple lines, what you would like the finished hedge to look like. It’s easier to see the dead zone in the early spring when there isn’t much new growth. By using our site, you agree to our. As the name suggests, cloud pruning creates the visual effect of foliage of a tree floating like a cloud above the graceful forms of branches. This will give you the freedom to trim as needed to attain the perfect shape. For more tips on how to prune your juniper, including how to thin creeping and semi-upright junipers, keep reading! Juniper trees do not support top cutting. The only exception to this rule is pines, which should be pruned before the candle growth develops in the spring. After the initial thinning, creeping and semi-upright junipers can be pruned as normal. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. You can find them at most home improvement stores or garden centers. Instead, prune lightly and regularly, just before new growth begins in spring. The initial wiring is in place; this is very rudimentary at this stage. Cloud pruning is an art form that is widely practised in Japan. Prune junipers annually to correct their shape. Lauren Kurtz is a Naturalist and Horticultural Specialist. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. Pruned plants in this style is trendy. But occasionally you will need to prune a Wichita Blue Juniper to maintain its size and promote healthy growth. Remove those branches at the base. Leave 1 to 2 feet of foliage at the top end of the selected branches, however. See more ideas about cloud pruning, beautiful gardens, garden design. Unfortunately, some have been allowed to grow to 30 - 40 feet. You can easily prune your juniper tree to control its shape and encourage new growth! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. How to Prune Junipers & Coniferous Evergreens. Aim for organic shapes and avoid repetition. Three to four times a year, trim the foliage to the original shapes. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6a\/Prune-a-Juniper-Tree-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Prune-a-Juniper-Tree-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/6a\/Prune-a-Juniper-Tree-Step-1.jpg\/aid9874315-v4-728px-Prune-a-Juniper-Tree-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"