How to Reduce the Size of Overgrown Shrubs

Many shrubs grow larger than expected and eventually begin to outgrow their space. When a shrub becomes too large, simply cutting the outside edges back may not be the best solution. Proper pruning can reduce the overall size while maintaining the shrub’s natural shape and encouraging healthy new growth.

This overgrown juniper had outgrown its space and needed a significant size reduction. We carefully removed excess growth using proper pruning cuts, reducing the shrub’s overall size while preserving its natural shape and form.

Can an Overgrown Shrub Be Made Smaller?

In many cases, yes. The best approach depends on the shrub species, its age, condition, and how much it needs to be reduced.

Rather than uniformly cutting everything back, selective pruning can remove older or overgrown branches and gradually bring the shrub back to a manageable size. This helps avoid the unnatural appearance that can result from repeatedly shearing the outside of a shrub.

When Should Shrubs Be Reduced?

The ideal pruning time depends on the type of shrub. Some flowering shrubs should be pruned shortly after they finish flowering, while others are best reduced during their dormant season.

Knowing when a particular shrub flowers and where it produces its flower buds is important before performing a major size reduction.

How Much Can a Shrub Be Reduced?

The amount a shrub can safely be reduced varies by species and condition. Some established shrubs tolerate significant pruning, while others respond poorly to severe cuts.

For larger size-reduction projects, it is generally better to selectively remove older branches and reduce the shrub gradually rather than cutting everything back to a uniform height.

Restoring Overgrown Shrubs in Traverse City

Overgrown shrubs can quickly make a landscape look crowded, block windows and walkways, or grow beyond their intended space. Proper pruning can help restore their size and shape while maintaining a natural appearance.

Gordon’s Tree & Shrub provides professional shrub trimming, shaping, and size-reduction services throughout Traverse City and the surrounding Northern Michigan area.