Pruning Overgrown Pittosporum for Interior Density

15-ft Pittosporum (likely P. tobira or P. tenuifolium) thinned in center; dead wood removed. Goal: greener interior.

Pruning Strategy

1. Thin crossing/rubbing branches to open canopy.
2. Shorten long side shoots to encourage lateral branching.
3. Remove up to 1/3 of canopy per year; avoid denuding.
4. Cut just above a node facing outward.

Timing

Late winter/early spring before new growth (or after flowering for P. tobira).

Regeneration

Pittosporum responds well to hard pruning; can be cut to 2–3 ft and will resprout densely. For gradual renewal, stagger over 2–3 years.

Care

• Fertilize with balanced fertilizer after pruning.
• Water during dry spells.
• Mulch root zone.