When to prune holly (evergreen)
Late winter while dormant. Late-winter pruning keeps the plant's shape and lets you use cut branches for holiday greens in December. Heavy cuts can reduce berries.
| Type | shrub/tree |
|---|---|
| Blooms on | foliage (berries on old wood) |
| Bloom season | spring |
| When to prune | Late winter while dormant |
| Stop | No heavy pruning in the 6–8 weeks before your first fall frost |
Avoid
Late-summer pruning.
Example dates
| Place | Dates |
|---|---|
| Austin, TX (78701) | Jan 27–Feb 24 |
| Atlanta, GA (30303) | Feb 10–Mar 10 |
| St. Louis, MO (63101) | Feb 18–Mar 18 |
| Chicago, IL (60614) | Feb 27–Mar 27 |
| Denver, CO (80202) | Mar 19–Apr 16 |
| Seattle, WA (98101) | Jan 30–Feb 27 |
Every ZIP page has its own dates. Find your ZIP.
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Sources
- University of Georgia Extension: B961: Pruning Ornamental Plants in the Landscape
- Clemson Cooperative Extension HGIC: Pruning Shrubs
- University of Minnesota Extension: Pruning trees and shrubs
Summarized in our own words from public extension publications.
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