Prune Or Train Hollywood Juniper Branches

Question

I have a Hollywood Juniper planted 4 years ago in the Pacific NW in South facing front yard with branches that are starting to block the sidewalk. The tag said 4-6 foot spread, but this shrub is closer to 8-9 foot wide. I was expecting it to grow taller and the branches to turn up like I had seen in SoCal. I would prefer to bend or train the branches upward instead of pruning. Can I use some heavy wire like a coat hanger and use a Bonsai method to bend them up? If so, any guidance on method would be appreciated. If pruning is the best option how far back would I prune the branches?

• 

Answer 1

Unfortunately, the tag misrepresented the potential of that shrub. Ultimately, they can reach a spread of about 10 feet, more or less.

The best thing may be to train it in the shape that you want. training wire is perfect for this. Make sure that it is rubber coated, as most horticultural bonsai wire should be.If you choose an uncoated wire, make sure that it is made of anodized aluminum to avoid damage to the tree. Depending on the material of the coat hanger, it can have negative reactions with the tree's bark.

If it does get too unruly, you can always prune.

Here is an article to help you with the care of Junipers:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/juniper/care-of-junipers.htm