Holly tree pruning

Discussion in 'Outdoor Gardening in the Pacific Northwest' started by PaulFishman, Jul 27, 2020.

  1. PaulFishman

    PaulFishman Member

    Messages:
    14
    Likes Received:
    0
    Location:
    Coquitlam
    Hi,
    I have a holly tree in a pot. It was losing some leaves so I put it in a bigger pot and it seems to be OK. It is getting quite tall and thin. Is there a way to prune it so it gets bushier and not so tall?
    Thanks
     

    Attached Files:

  2. Acerholic

    Acerholic Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator VCBF Cherry Scout Maple Society

    Messages:
    15,598
    Likes Received:
    13,024
    Location:
    Hampshire England Zone 8b UK
    @PaulFishman, good evening Paul and welcome to the forum. I have a varigated Holly in a pot and have kept it small by pruning.
    IMO I would prune and take the top off to the height you require, 'but not now ' as you do not want new young shoots forming that can be damaged from Autumn frosts.
    Next year between April and beginning of July is the best time to shape your Holly.
    It will thicken once you carry out the pruning of the tip and side branches.
    Hope this is of help
     
  3. PaulFishman

    PaulFishman Member

    Messages:
    14
    Likes Received:
    0
    Location:
    Coquitlam
    It does help, thanks. Does it matter how tall I prune it? I mean how much I chop off? It is about 6’ tall now. I would like it about 4’
     
  4. Acerholic

    Acerholic Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator VCBF Cherry Scout Maple Society

    Messages:
    15,598
    Likes Received:
    13,024
    Location:
    Hampshire England Zone 8b UK
    @PaulFishman, not a problem at all Paul, it is a very hardy shrub. I would still wait until April at the earliest though.
     
    PaulFishman likes this.

Share This Page