Pruning Leyland Cypress for Narrow Hedge: Selective Cuts Over Shearing

Controlling Width at 6 Feet

Leyland cypress planted Dec 2005 (5–6 ft) in Alpharetta, GA. Owner wants to keep width ≤6 ft.

Better Than Shearing

• Shearing leads to dense shell, dead interior, long-term decline.
• Selective pruning: cut individual branches back to laterals.
• Maintains natural form, air flow, longevity.

When to Prune

Late winter/early spring before new growth. Light touch annually beats heavy correction.