Winter pruning is a great option because it ensures that the plant is pruned before new growth begins. It’s important to work before new growth begins so that you don’t have to worry about damaging new branches. This will give you the freedom to trim as needed to attain the perfect shape.
Junipers can be trimmed any time from spring until the first freeze of the year.
If you are working during the springtime, there likely won’t be much new growth to avoid.
It’s easier to see the dead zone in the early spring when there isn’t much new growth. Sometimes, if the juniper is very mature, the dead zone will be extremely large. If the dead zone makes up the majority of the plant, dig up the juniper and replant a new shrub in its place.
After you trim the branches to the junctions, keep an eye out for new growth.
In this case, it’s okay to cut into the dead zone because the branches are already dead, and there will be more space for new growth to expand on the outer area of the bush.
Doing this helps to prevent disease in the bush and allows more light to reach the buds at junctions toward the center of the tree. After the initial thinning, creeping and semi-upright junipers can be pruned as normal.
If you can’t find a junction, simply cut the branch to match the overall shape and height of the bush.
For example, if the length of a protruding branch is 24 inches (61 cm), you should prune 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) off of the branch.
Do not use wire to do this unless you are also using tree straps around the branches. Wire will rub against them. Tree ties tend to be sturdier than twine, but they’re more expensive. You can find them at most home improvement stores or garden centers. After a year, you will need to remove the ties, and the branches should remain in place without the ties.
