The general guide for pruning is the "one-third rule." Remove no more than one-third of the total canopy (green leaves) at any one time. This is best accomplished by selectively pruning the oldest, least productive wood in the plant, resulting in vigorous regrowth and maintenance of plant size. Overgrown plants may take two to three years of pruning to obtain the desired size and shape.
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How much can be pruned from overgrown or old plants when trying to renovate a landscape?
Last Updated: January 07, 2008
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