Q&A for How to Prune Conifers

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What can I do for conifers that are too tall?

Community Answer

My conifers grew about 2m a year, I have to trim them every year or at least every other year. About 10 years ago I cut the top off at 8 feet, otherwise they will grow to 20+m and too large for me to manage.

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Question

If my conifer is brown on the inside, should I cut the brown section out?

Community Answer

I am no expert, but cutting the brown patch will leave bald patches. I trim the conifers in the autumn, allowing maximum light, water and time to grow for the following summer. When trimming it also shows more brown areas where there was a lack of light, but normally grows back.

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Question

How do I prune 3 foot tall conifers that are in pots?

Community Answer

Very lightly with manual shears or secateurs. This gives you better control.

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Question

Is it advisable to reduce the height of conifer trees that have been growing for several decades?

Ben Nettrouer

Community Answer

It is not advisable. Thinning a tree to decrease its “wind sail” effect from top to bottom and from the inside out is the safest way to insure a safe, long living tree.

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Question

Where did conifers come from?

Community Answer

They evolved from ancient gymnosperms (ie. gingko), which evolved from seed ferns, which evolved from fern allies.

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Question

Can I trim a fir tree just on one side? I just want to trim it on my property line side.

Ben Nettrouer

Community Answer

You can if you enjoy half-dead looking trees. Thinning is the best way to do it if you really have to trim it. I don’t recommend taking whole limbs.

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Question

Can I prune my conifer from the top?

Community Answer

You can, but it will probably send up alternate leader branches.

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Question

Can conifers be pruned in winter?

Community Answer

In my experience, trimming the conifers in autumn allows maximum light, water and time for growth for the next summer. Trimming them any other time affects the looks of the conifers in the summer.

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Question

My conifer is about 20 feet tall. Can I cut it to 12 feet?

Mary Wilson

Community Answer

This type of trimming is very severe and not good for the tree, it is too much all at once. The leader should not be cut but consult an expert to see what their advice is.

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