Use the right tools for pruning The right tools make pruning.
Developmental pruning should start the year after the tree is planted, and continue until the tree is years old to train the tree to have one central leader (branch). It also keeps pruning cuts small so wood rot doesn’t establish in the tree. The goal for pruning your cypress shrubs should be yearly thinning rather than major thinning that takes place less frequently.
Remove multiple leaders on evergreens and other trees where a single leader is desirable.
It is important to never prune more than 1/3 of the overall branches. Pruning requires skill to achieve a natural appearance and keep the shrub healthy. Take your time and err on the side of caution when pruning.
Container-grown shrubs require little pruning. When planting deciduous shrubs, thin out branches for good spacing and prune out any broken, diseased or crossing or circling roots. When planting deciduous shrubs for hedges, prune each plant to within 6 inches of the ground. The best time to prune depends upon the plant.
Trim early-spring-flowering shrubs right after they bloom. Summer-flowering plants should be clipped in winter or early spring.
For non-flowering plants, trim after new growth has completely formed. After you've started pruning a gold thread cypress, you may need to also make training cuts once new growth appears, to help the plant develop the desired shape. As new lateral branches form, trim back any that are overly long and thin, to promote more branching and bushiness. If the branch is 1/4 inch or less, use hand pruners.
If you're planning to make big cuts of more than 3 feet, do it in early spring, suggests Reeves.
If it's a branch up to 1 1/2 inches, use lopping shears. For those more than 1 1/2 inches, use a pruning saw. If the branches are beyond your.