Thanks to its lush, evergreen needles, the yew is a total classic for garden hedges. But if you want that hedge to stay looking sharp and tidy, a little TLC is required—specifically, knowing how to prune it the right way. Here’s the lowdown on how to tackle the job and what you need to keep in mind.
What to expect when pruning
If you’re growing a single yew tree out in the open, you can actually skip the pruning altogether. Left to its own devices, it’ll naturally grow into a beautiful shape. However, if you’re planting a yew hedge, it’s a different story. You’ll definitely need to break out the shears to keep the hedge at your desired height and to ensure it stays dense and well-formed.
The good news? Yews are pretty low-maintenance when it comes to timing. They grow quite slowly compared to other hedge plants, so you won’t have to prune nearly as often. Just remember to take it slow—since yews are toxic, you’ll need to take a few safety precautions before you start clipping.
Cubes, globes, or pyramids
A healthy yew has thick, vibrant green needles that grow very close together. This makes them the perfect canvas for topiary! Whether you want a classic rectangular hedge, a pyramid, or even to prune it into a globe, a well-maintained yew always looks sophisticated.
If you start seeing brown needles, it’s more than just an eyesore—it’s a red flag. While it could mean your yew is sick or dealing with a fungal infection, it’s often just a sign of “location stress.” Yews aren’t big fans of scorching midday sun or “wet feet” (waterlogged soil), so keep an eye on those conditions.
How to get the job done
Before you start, make sure you have the right gear. Safety first! Always wear gloves, as the toxins in the yew can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. I also recommend wearing long sleeves, long pants, and eye protection while you work.
Here’s your checklist:
- Gardening gloves and safety goggles
- Sharp, clean pruning shears or hedge trimmers
- Trash bags for the clippings
The best time to prune your yew hedge is in March. By pruning at this time, you avoid disturbing any nesting birds and get the hedge in great shape just before the main growing season kicks off. When you’re finished, you can toss the clippings into a sealed trash bag (to keep pets and kids safe) or shred them for the compost pile. Believe it or not, yew clippings are compostable! Soil bacteria eventually break down the toxins, making it safe for your garden later on.
