Can I trim back severely overgrown bushes??

12 years ago

I moved into a house with six severely overgrown bushes. They nearly 5ft tall. See images below. When looking inside the bush, it's fairly empty. I'd really like to trim these back to around 2 1/2ft or so, but I worry if they will come back or not. If so, about how long does it take in this situation? I'm willing to be patient if it's worth it. Otherwise, I need to dig them out since they are hiding the front of my house. Thanks for any tips and advice.
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Comments (2)

tsugajunkie z5 SE WI ♱
12 years ago
They are yews and do have dormant buds but after severe pruning (best done in March or April) it may take 3-5 years for the buds to wake up and fill in completely.

tj
peoniesandposies
12 years ago
The basic point is .... do it. You don't anything to lose except maybe 1 growing season. Severe prune in late winter, and see what happens. Yews will come back from a heavy pruning. If you aren't happy next year, then go ahead and replant in the fall (2013).
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Can I trim back severely overgrown bushes??

Comments (2)

tsugajunkie z5 SE WI ♱

peoniesandposies

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