How to Properly Prune Junipers

Prepare to do the most extensive pruning in the spring, before the buds break. Mild pruning can be done any time throughout the year, but extensive pruning of junipers should only be done at this time in the spring.

Study the "dead zone" that will always be in the center of a juniper. The best way to prune this area is with a selective trimming that removes the weakest and sickest-looking branches in the shaded center of the juniper.

Prune the branches that you've identified as the weakest. A branch should be cut off all the way down at its point of origin from a "parent stem." Look for the closest branch junction where a "Y" is formed. This is where you make the cuts. Only remove the weakest branches in an area.

Leave the stronger branches in the "dead zone" and leave enough budding juniper on the outside to cover it up. People should not be able to glance and see a big dead center.