When to prune pines and spruces
Late spring: pinch pine 'candles' as they elongate. Pines grow from candles once a year; pinching half the candle in spring keeps them compact. Spruce can be trimmed just before or as new growth starts.
| Type | tree |
|---|---|
| Blooms on | foliage |
| Bloom season | n/a |
| When to prune | Late spring: pinch pine 'candles' as they elongate |
| Stop | No heavy pruning in the 6–8 weeks before your first fall frost |
Avoid
Cutting central leaders.
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Sources
- University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension (Wisconsin Horticulture): Pruning Evergreens
- Clemson Cooperative Extension HGIC: Pruning Shrubs
Summarized in our own words from public extension publications.
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