Question
Ilive in southeastern Oklahoma. There is red tip growing on the east side of our house that has become overgrown(touching eaves). How short can I trim these? When is the best time of year to do this?  

Answer
Bill,

I would recommend pruning it back slowly- cutting only up to 1/3 off, but not going past the last green growth. allow the plant to rest for one season, then prune it back again. In other words, prune it in the spring of 2007, then again in 2008, unless it shows alot of regrowth during the 2007 season, then shape it again in the fall.

Good luck.
Ed Gulliksen