This past winter caused a lot of damage. Should I wait to see if it comes back? A photo of the tree is included.
I am a bit unclear if your question is about the tree damage, the Yew plant that also is showing some winter damage, or both.
Here is an article about cleaning up winter damage on your trees and plants.
The Yew growing around the tree base could be an issue.
This can cause issues with root damage, damp conditions around the trunk not allowing air circulation can invite fungus and insects.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/winter-damaged-trees-shrubs.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/yew/growing-yew-shrubs.htm
I have a yew (clipped cone), I think, that needs to be trimmed. It is getting tall and spindly, not dense as I thought. How should I trim it? I want it to keep the tree shape, not a shrub.
Remove all shoots or branches that protrude beyond the base of the tree. Establish a symmetrical round shape at the base, which you can extend up to the tip of the tree, following your desired shape. Remove broken and diseased branches off the tree as well.
I have a yew that has grown past the window. I want to prune it down past the first part of the plant. Maybe about 3 feet above the ground. Will the plant come back? The plant is probably 25 years old.
If your shrub has not had regular pruning, you will need to start with a lighter prune.
Here is a link to help you.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/shgen/rejuvenation-pruning-tips.htm
One of my Capitata yews is starting to get yellow needles. These are very expensive plants. I want to prevent it from dying. What is your suggestion?
The yellowing needles could be water issues, mineral deficiencies, insects, or or a fungus.
Make sure the shrub is not in overly wet soil and that the area is well draining. The Yew is tolerant of most soil conditions except wet soil.
Root rot will cause yellowing needles.
The Yew prefers soil that is a ph of 6.0 to 6.5. Adding chelated iron to the soil can help.
Lack of magnesium can also cause yellowing needles. You can use magnesium tablets or a fertilizer with magnesium in it.
A soil test can help you correct soil nutrient issues.
Black Vine Weevils, scales and mealybugs attack Yew's. Search for insects and treat with Neem Oil if you find these bugs.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/yew/growing-yew-shrubs.htm
When and how to best prune/shape Citation yews to fill out?
The safest time to prune your Yew shrub is winter during dormancy.
You can also prune in late summer, following their spring, early summer growing.
Only light pruning is generally necessary, and if you are pruning more heavily, make sure you do not remove more then 1/3 of the shrub at any prune.
Here are some articles with more information.
https://extension.unh.edu/resources/files/Resource000594_Rep616.pdf
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/yew/growing-yew-shrubs.htm
About 6 months ago my husband cut back a column yew tree. My 2 year old son helped him pick up the branches, etc. to clear away. I have read how poisonous all parts of the yew tree are so I am now concerned that it could have been harmful to my son. Please could you tell me if it is harmful/poisonous from touching it or only if ingested? Thank you for your help. Lindsay.
Yes, they are poisonous. You should contact your physician if you have any concerns about your childs health. Here is a link that will tell you more;
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/yew/japanese-yew-plants.htm
In Illinois we had a yew that was about 3 ft high and was tapered at the end.
Here is an article about the care of Yews. If you have a more specific question, please let us know!
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/yew/growing-yew-shrubs.htm