Trimming overgrown holly bushes can be done in late winter, which is the ideal time for pruning. During this time, the holly is dormant and cutting back the overgrown branches will promote new growth in the spring. The best part is that hollies can be cut back hard without causing any damage to the plant.
To start, assess the holly bush and determine how much you want to prune. If the bush has become too large and unruly, you can even opt to cut it back to the ground. This may seem drastic, but hollies are resilient plants and will often rejuvenate quickly.
Before you begin, make sure you have the necessary tools such as sharp pruning shears or loppers, gloves, and safety goggles. It’s important to protect yourself while working with holly bushes as their leaves can be prickly.
When pruning, start by removing any dead or diseased branches. These branches are not contributing to the overall health and appearance of the plant and should be cut off completely. This will also help prevent the spread of any diseases or pests.
Next, look for any crossing or rubbing branches. These branches can cause damage to each other and create entry points for diseases. Remove one of the branches, preferably the weaker or less desirable one, to improve airflow and overall plant health.
If your holly bush is a hedge, you can shear it very hard to shape it as desired. This means cutting back the outermost branches to create a neat and tidy appearance. Keep in mind that hollies grow relatively slowly, so it’s best to shape them slightly smaller than your desired size to allow for some growth throughout the year.
When pruning, avoid cutting too early in the winter as you’ll be left with unsightly branches throughout the season. Late winter, just before the new growth begins, is the ideal time for holly pruning.
Personal experience: I have a row of holly bushes along the front of my house that had become overgrown and unruly over the years. I decided to cut them back hard one winter, removing about two-thirds of the branches. I was initially worried that they would not recover, but to my surprise, they quickly rejuvenated in the spring and now look healthier and more vibrant than ever before.
Trimming overgrown holly bushes can be done in late winter without causing any harm to the plant. Cut back dead or diseased branches, remove crossing or rubbing branches, and shear hedges as desired. Just be sure to avoid pruning too early in the winter to maintain an attractive appearance throughout the season.
