The best time to prune arborvitae is during the late winter or early spring, right before new growth starts. This is typically the ideal time because the plant is still dormant, and pruning at this time allows the arborvitae to recover and grow vigorously during the upcoming growing season.
Pruning arborvitae in late winter or early spring ensures that the plant has plenty of time to heal any wounds before new growth begins. This is important because pruning can cause stress to the plant, and allowing it time to recover before the growing season minimizes the risk of damage or disease.
When pruning arborvitae, it is generally safe to shear them, especially if you are looking to maintain a particular shape or size. However, it is important not to prune too severely, as this can result in bare wood and limit the plant’s ability to produce new growth from that area. It’s best to avoid cutting back into the oldest wood of the arborvitae, as it is less likely to produce new growth.
In my personal experience, I have found that pruning arborvitae in late winter has yielded the best results. I have noticed that when I prune them during this time, the plants bounce back quickly and produce lush, healthy growth in the following months. On the other hand, when I have pruned them later in the growing season, I have observed that the plants struggle to recover and may even show signs of stress or decline.
To summarize, the best time to prune arborvitae is at the end of winter, just before new growth emerges. This timing allows the plant to recover and grow vigorously during the upcoming growing season. It is generally safe to shear arborvitae, but it’s important not to prune too severely and avoid cutting into the oldest wood. By following these guidelines, you can help maintain the health and shape of your arborvitae plants.