How to Prune a Viburnum Hedge


Viburnum usually grows in the southern part of the United States or other semi-tropical areas. The evergreen shrub can grow very large--reaching 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide. It has bright green, smooth leaves that give the plant a robust look. In the spring, viburnum boasts small white flowers. The plant prefers full sun, but can survive in moderate shade. As a hedge, viburnum creates a tall, thick screen that offers privacy. Prune the hedge to keep it healthy, and to maintain the shape and form you desire.

Step 1

Remove dying or damaged branches from the bulk of the viburnum hedge, which can be entry points for diseases or insects. Cut into the wood with sterile hand pruners at the point where the unwanted branch meets healthy wood.

Step 2

Shape the viburnum hedge to maintain its natural shape. This will keep maintenance to a minimum because new shoots that grow will blend in. Remove older branches, as well as unwanted ones that cross or rub against each other.

Step 3

Prune your viburnum hedge in a tall, narrow shape to surround your yard or create a fence-like property line. Cut off long branches that grow out from the sides of the hedge. Clip the branches at their bases, or at the end next to a bud.

Step 4

Trim the shrub with hedge clippers to shear the edges and make a defined, formal shape. Run the hedge clippers along the sides of the bush, trying to keep it at a 90-degree angle from the ground.

Things You'll Need

  • Gloves
  • Hedge clippers
  • Hand pruners


  • Floridata
  • North Carolina State University
Keywords: viburnum hedge, prune viburnum, prune hedge

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