If you don't use this cut, you could rip or tear the bark.

Sep 21, Prune in the early spring before new growth begins on the trees. Use a ladder to reach the tops of the arborvitae trees.

Spread a tarp around the base of the trees to catch the branches as you cut them off. Emerald green arborvitae trees are evergreens that many homeowners use as a privacy hedge in a landscape. Arborvitae Pruning Tips. A little goes a long way! Remember not to remove more than % of the foliage or cut back beyond the last foot or so of a branch, if you want to see regrowth. The best time to prune an arborvitae depends on why you are pruning.

Check out the guide above. Clean and sanitize your pruning shear before you start pruning.