Keeping yew pocket-sized can be achieved through steady and proper pruning . yew are known for their power to brook heavy pruning , making them a great choice for hedge or pocket-sized decorative trees . By following a few unproblematic steps , you may effectively keep your yew at a desire size and shape .

1 . Timing : The estimable time to prune yews is in mid - spring when new growing begin . This allows the plant to recover and regrow before the onset of winter . keep off rationalize during extreme heat or frigid as it can try the plants .

2 . Gradual Pruning : It ’s important to cut yew bit by bit over a period of three long time to avoid shocking the plant and assure goodish development . This method acting also helps maintain the natural form of the yew .

3 . yr 1 : Start by cutting the top of the yew back to a altitude that is at least 15 cm ( 6 in ) low than the final desired height . This initial reduction will encourage the growth of fresh growing and help create a dense , even open .

4 . class 2 : In the 2nd year , focus on reducing the breadth of one side of the yew . This can be done by selectively cut back branches that are run beyond the desire width . Use astute and clean pruning tools to make precise cuts , keep off any lachrymation or damage to the branches .

5 . yr 3 : in the third year , repeat the process of reducing the breadth , but this time focus on the diametric side of the yew . By alternating the sides each twelvemonth , you could keep a balanced and compact shape .

6 . Regular Maintenance : After the initial three - year pruning cycle , regular care pruning should be carried out annually to keep the yew at the desired size . This involve dress back any novel growing that exceeds the desired height or width .

7 . Considerations : When pruning yew , it ’s of import to look at the overall health and vigor of the plants . Avoid take out more than one - third of the plant ’s foliage in a exclusive pruning session , as this can weaken the yew and make it more susceptible to disease and pests .

8 . Personal Experience : I have in person wield yews in my own garden using this gradual pruning coming . By accompany these steps , I was able to keep the yews at a manageable size without sacrifice their natural stunner . It requires patience and uniform effort , but the result are well worth it .

Keeping yew small involve gradual pruning over three year , start with deoxidise the height in the first yr , follow by reducing the width on one side in the 2d year , and then the opposite side in the third year . Regular maintenance pruning should be performed each year to maintain the desired size of it . By following these step and considering the health of the plants , you could successfully keep your yew small-scale and well - uphold .

Caroline Bates