Cutback of Holly Bushes

Question

I live in northwest Florida. My Holly bushes are growing up and outward, causing an overhang of the lawn. Besides looking extremely top-heavy, they are thin at the bottom and reaching up to 7 ft tall. How far can I cut them back with the bottom parts being so thinned out?

Answer 1

While most pruning is done in December, you can still prune now but it may affect the number of berries produced this year. Hollies, as with most shrubs, can be pruned back by a third of their growth. Any more than that will likely harm the plants. This article should help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/holly/trimming-holly-bushes-how-to-prune-holly-bushes.htm