Holly trees

Question

I have inherited an area of land that has not been cultivated for many years – 25+. It contains a number of holly trees. I say trees because they may well have initially been single stems that have just been allowed to grow naturally without pruning. Some we have removed but I would like to prune and retain some, but they’re 12 ft or more high with 9” circumference and branches trailing 3-4 feet from the trunk. They’re heavy with berries at the moment. My question is – how do we prune to enhance growth and provide some shape?

Answer 1

Any pruning will encourage bushiness, and shaping is just a matter of pruning until the shape of the plant is pleasing. This article will help you: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/holly/trimming-holly-bushes-how-to-prune-holly-bushes.htm