Renovation Pruning for Overgrown Yews (Taxus) and Japanese Holly

Hard Pruning Old Yews and Hollies

Taxus (yew) tolerates severe renovation pruning in summer or early fall. Cut stems back to 1–2 inches above old wood using sharp bypass pruners (for stems <1 in.) or a pruning saw (larger stems). Clean ragged cuts with a sharp knife.

Japanese holly (Ilex crenata) is pruned in summer. Same tool rules apply. Invest in a quality pruning saw—it cuts on the pull stroke, reducing effort and damage.

Three-Cut Method for Large Branches

1. Remove ½–⅔ of the branch length to reduce weight.
2. Undercut ¼ through the remaining stub.
3. Top-cut down to the undercut; trim cleanly.