Cindi,

In early spring, I planted 6 Leyland Cypress across the back of my yard to screen neighbors. I love them. They are currently about 7-8 feet tall and I understand their growth habits. Due to their rapid groth habits, I know I should top them once they reach the desired height. Until then, to promote fullness, I understand I should sheer them twice a year. They are currently very full and dense and I want them to keep that appearance and not get to thin like some I have seen.

My question: When are the best times to sheer them? How much should I take off? Is it too late to sheer them this year?

I also planted two Norway Spruce which are also about 8 feet tall. hould I also sheer them once or twice a year to keep their fullness? Same questions as above.

Thanks
Rob Wathen

You can shear evergreens in late winter or early spring as new growth begins in order to keep them compact and full. The general rule of thumb is to not remove more than one third or so of the new growth.