Pruning bushes and shrubs into tree shapes can transform your outdoor space — adding visual interest, defining garden areas, and bringing new dimension and privacy to landscaping.
In this guide, we’ll break down all the details needed to get your bushes looking vibrant and full.
Overview
Checking In With Chelsea suggests trimming bushes to look like trees.
That’s what Today’s Homeowner co-host Chelsea Lipford Wolf did with her loropetalum bush. She liked the bush but thought it could look even better by pruning the lowest limbs to make it look more like a tree.
“With my pruning sheers in hand,” says Chelsea, ” I quickly cut the thin, leafy suckers that filled up the base of the bush.”
Check out Chelsea’s blog to learn more.
How to Tree Up Bushes
Turning a bush into a tree form takes some time and care, but it can add a beautiful new dimension to your landscape. Here are tips on how to “tree up” bushes:
- Choose an appropriate bush variety. Look for types with dense branching habits that respond well to pruning the base. Some good options include azaleas, boxwoods, hibiscus, loropetalum, and roses.
- Start pruning when planting new bushes or when bushes are young. It’s easiest to prune away lower limbs and establish the tree shape early on. For mature bushes, you may need to transition gradually over a couple of seasons.
- Prune all growth from the base up to your desired “trunk” height. This may range from six inches to several feet, depending on your needs and preferences. Remove suckers and shoots as they appear at the base.
- As the bush grows, prune selectively to maintain the tree shape. Encourage good branch spacing and airflow. Prune crossed, damaged, or inward-facing branches.
- Thin interior growth so sunlight can penetrate the canopy. This encourages flowering and healthy growth.
- Fertilize in early spring and fall and water regularly for strong growth.
With the right care and regular pruning, you can turn your bushes into beautiful tree forms that add new visual appeal to garden beds and borders. You may want to do some additional research on pruning for specific varieties.
So, Is Pruning Bushes into Trees Worth It?
Pruning bushes into elegant tree shapes takes some time but can greatly enhance your landscape. The visual interest of a tree-form shrub is well worth the effort. Shaping bushes into trees also lets you screen undesirable views, define garden spaces, and add height and privacy.
Just be sure to select bushes that respond well to pruning up the base. With smart plant choices and regular care, you can turn your bushes into gorgeous living sculptures.
FAQs About Pruning Bushes into Trees
What tools do I need to prune bushes into trees?
Quality bypass pruning shears and loppers with sharp blades work well for most pruning cuts when treeing up bushes. For thicker branches, use pruning saws or a chainsaw.
When is the best time to prune bushes into trees?
Prune spring-blooming bushes right after flowering. For other bushes, prune in late winter or very early spring before new growth emerges. Avoid pruning during fall to limit stress going into winter dormancy.
How much maintenance do tree-form bushes need?
Expect to prune tree-form bushes at least twice yearly to maintain shape and remove basal shoots. Thin and shape selectively as the bush grows. Fertilize annually and watch for pests/diseases.
What are the best bushes to prune into tree form?
Azaleas, boxwoods, camellias, hibiscus, holly, jasmine, loropetalum, oleander, roses, and viburnum are some great options for tree-shaping. Choose varieties with dense, branching habits.
Should I stake newly pruned tree-form bushes?
Staking large tree-form bushes for one to two years helps support them while the trunk stabilizes. Use soft ties that won’t cut into tender bark. Remove stakes once the tree form is established.
