Pruning an American Holly

Question

I bought an American Holly of about 15″ to 18″ early last summer. Over the course of the season the central stem died out at the top so that the growth ever since has been outward (from branches) instead of upward (from a central stem). How can I prune so that the central stem once again is the primary point of upward growth?

Thanks!

Steve Holmes
Orange, Virginia

Answer 1

There is not really a way to prune it to grow upwards.
You can prune to improve shape.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/holly/american-holly-trees.htm