Pruning a 28-Year-Old Ficus Tree: Three Approaches for Size & Shape

How to Prune a Massive, 28-Year Ficus Without Fear

Norma's 8-ft+ ficus (never repotted, some branches cut for size) is spreading everywhere. Needs pruning guidance for living room space.

Expert Encouragement & Methods from Will Creed

Healthy ficus pruning is forgiving—new growth covers mistakes quickly. Trust the regrowth.

Three Pruning Strategies

1. Reduce canopy by ⅓: Cut back all outer growth → smaller, fuller tree. Great for oversized ficus.
2. Selective interior opening: Cut longest ⅓ of stems back to center → light penetrates, new growth fills sparse middle. Maintains size discreetly.
3. Combine both.

Art Meets Science

Visualize post-prune shape and future growth. Will has pruned ficus to leafless stumps—regrew beautifully. "Plunge in and have fun!"

For guidance, contact Will at wcreed@HorticulturalHelp.com or HorticulturalHelp.com.