How to Trim a Korean Boxwood

Korean boxwood is found in hardiness zones 4 through 9. The plant grows to a height of 4 to 5 feet, and is typically grown along foundations or entryways, as hedges, or in containers. Korean boxwood grows best in full or partial sun, as long as it has well-draining soil. If you leave the shrub alone, it will form a mounded, broad shape with many branches. Trim Korean boxwood to control the size and shape of the plant.

Hedge clippers
Pruning shears
Gloves

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the latest growth in the first few years of establishment to make the plant more compact. This will promote the development of new branches. Shearing will, however, make the outer foliage dense, shading the inside branches. Use hedge clippers to cut across the top or side of the shrub. Run the clippers along the Korean boxwood, removing as much of the foliage as desired. Creating a hedge-like appearance gives the plant a formal look.
- 2
  Prune weak or dead branches any time of year. Use hand pruners to selectively prune the branches at the junctions they share with other wood. One annual pruning will be enough to keep the Korean boxwood under control.
- 3
  Remove branches that are rubbing or crossing each other in the interior of the bush. Also target older branches, to make way for newer wood. This pruning will improve air circulation, which means a healthier plant.
- 4
  Cut off branches in the spring that have been killed over the winter. Make the cut at the joint with healthy branches.

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