Pruning cypress trees: how to trim leylandii & others

In order for cypress trees to keep their beautiful shape, they need to be pruned regularly. We explain here what you should look out for when pruning cypresses.

Cypresses (Cupressus) are wonderful ornamental trees and shrubs for the garden. Fast growth is one of their specialities and their pruning tolerance is also extremely good. Also, being evergreen and extremely dense, they make a wonderful screen and hedge. However, so that they do not become bald, they need regular pruning. Once a year is the rule here, although Leylandii (Cupressocyparis leylandii) can be pruned twice a year.

The right time for pruning cypresses

As regards the right time for pruning, cypresses are fortunately not so squeamish due to their vigour. Please note, however, that garden shrubs of any kind must not be pruned extensively in the period from 1 March to 30 September. Naturally, this also applies to cypresses. This rule is meant to prevent birds and other animals from being disturbed while nesting.

The most important factor for the time of pruning is the weather on the day chosen. Intersections are sensitive and direct sun can cause burning, fungi and infections penetrate when it rains and frost and cold also cause damage. Therefore, a mild and overcast day in October is ideal.

Here is how to proceed when cutting cypresses

Not all cypresses are the same. At least 16 species – depending on how one classifies the individual species – are counted in the cypress genus (Cupressus) alone. And then, of course, there are the related Lawson’s cypresses (Chamaecyparis), which are often mentioned in the same breath. Although all the associated species are quite insensitive to pruning and fast-growing, you should adjust pruning to their growth. For example, Italian cypresses (Cupressus sempervirens) grow quickly at the beginning, but as they get bigger, their growth slows.

The pruning technique should be the same as for other woody plants, namely to create a slanted cutting edge. In this way, no water remains on it and fungi and diseases have a harder time. Of course, you should always use sharp and clean pruning shears.

But before you get started, you should be aware that removing the tip of the plant has far-reaching consequences. If this certain cells responsible for height growth are also removed with it. As a result, the cypress trees can no longer grow in height, but continue to grow in width. This leads to a permanent strongly changed growth habit. Pruning is the best way to support its natural shape. To do this, you should especially trim the sides. If you do not do this, the cypress may gradually wither from the inside. Be sure when pruning, however, that you do not get into the brown and dead branch areas, because these gaps will, under certain circumstances, never close again. Radical pruning should therefore also be carried out with caution and should be spread over several years.

If you would like to plant the cypresses as a hedge, you will also be able to support the natural growth shape. Especially with Italian cypress this leads to a beautiful appearance. However, some species such as the Leylandii cypress are also suitable for typical hedge trimming.

How to prune cypress – the main points:

• Use clean, sharp tools
• Bevel the cut edge
• Do not cut off the tip so as not to disturb natural growth habit
• Prune sides to prevent balding
• Stay in green leaf areas, do not cut the brown areas
• Leylandii cypress also suitable for hedge shape

We have summarised everything important on the subject of cypresses for you here.