When to Trim Weeping Yaupon Trees

Time Frame

• Prune away dead or damaged yaupon holly branches any time of year. Ideal pruning time to remove larger branches or cut branches to limit overall plant size is in early summer. Pruning in late winter and spring results in a weedy regrowth thicket from the wound area, requiring more follow-up pruning later.

Technique

• Prune small twigs on the weeping yaupon holly so the cut is made 1/4 inch above a lower leaf or node -- a leaf scar dimple that often produces a new leaf bud. Larger branches are best cut off just above a lower branch junction or the main trunk. Avoid tearing the bark or crushing the wood; you want a clean, smooth cutting wound.

Equipment

• Hand pruners work well on twigs and branches less than 3/4 inch in diameter. Use hand loppers for branches 3/4 to 1 1/2 inches thick and a hand pruning saw for even larger branches. Gloves are optional as the leaves on this holly are not prickly.