Shrub Rejuvenation

Rejuvenation Explained

Rejuvenation shrub pruning is basically the term for cutting shrubs to ground level (or very low) in hopes of “rejuvenating” entirely new shrub growth.  Just like perennials, (daylily, hosta, ornamental grasses) many shrub types can be cut to the ground in early spring followed by luscious new growth.  Rejuvenation is a crucial (and mandatory) part of Urban Compromise Shrub Pruning and should be a part of most landscape maintenance plans. 

A Note from The BIG Oak on timing = While rejuvenation technically can be done in late fall or very early spring, I prefer late March / early April for Minnesota. On occasion, shrubs that are cut down in late fall can suffer some winter damage if there is not a base of snow cover when temperatures fall below zero.

Benefits of Rejuvenation

  • All tissue is removed at once including deadwood, diseased tissue and broken limbs

  • Following rejuvenation, the shrub will be at its healthiest point following the first year of re-growth.

  • Can renew a shrub that has been sheared to death year after year.  Instead of shearing the new growth twice per year, cut them to the ground every 3 years, essentially starting them over.

  • Can be used to manage overall height and shrub size.

  • Rejuvenation pruning is an acceptable shrub technique according to industry standards, while consistently shearing shrubs is NOT a technically a proper shrub pruning practice.

    A bonus note from The BIG Oak = In general, rejuvenation will be done every 3-4 years depending on shrub type, health, age and location.

Fully rejuvenated lilac hedge

The lilac hedge (pictured above) was cut down to ground level in late March. The picture shows the rejuvenated growth in early July.

Rejuvenated honeysuckle shrubs

The honeysuckle (pictured above) was cut to the ground in spring. The picture shows 1 year of re-growth full of flowers.