Cut shrubs down completely to between 6 and 12 inches from the ground in the spring, before new growth appears. Make sure to cut just above an intersecting branch or new bud to avoid creating dead stubs.
Add 2 to 3 inches of mulch around the base of each shrub to provide extra nutrition.
Prune new shoots, if desired, only after they reach between 6 and 12 inches long in the summer. Trimming 2 to 3 inches from the tips of the shoots can stimulate additional lateral branch growth for a smaller, more compact shrub.
Cut one-third of the oldest shrub stems down to ground level in the spring. Mulch each shrub immediately.
Cut one-half of the old stems down to ground level the following spring. Prune all new shoot growth to the desired height. Add mulch around the base of each shrub.
Cut all of the old stems down to ground level in the third spring. Prune new shoots to the desired height, then add mulch.
Prune regularly each spring to maintain the shrub's new shape.