Aucuba Japonica "Gold Dust Plant", Annual Maintenance Prune - August

Pruned these two Aucuba to a tree form many years ago. Each year, I would do a maintenance cut for size, shape and form.
I would perform the following:
1. Remove any growth from the bottom to maintain the lollipop look
2. Shake off any dead/dying leaves
3. Trim the bottom up for better form and better air circulation for plants underneath
4. Remove dead branches
5. Remove crossed branches
6. Thin the branches to reduce crowdiness
7. Using thinning cuts, reduce the height
8. If the above does not already achieve a good shape, cut to attain the preferred shape
Home garden in Canada west coast zone 7

[@Myrtuscommunis]

Magnificent plants! 💚😀

[@GardenNotes]

🙏🏻

[@sammysworld5485]

I have a small one in my garden that I planted last Summer. I have a very long wait before I tree form. I love their big glossy variegated leaves & that they are evergreen.

[@GardenNotes]

If you trim off one lowest stem each season, it will grow taller faster. Then you are closer to a tree form.

[@Autonomous1969]

I've got Aucubas in my garden but never thought of lifting them. Going to do one in the Spring.

[@GardenNotes]

💪🏻💪🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@PakHajiAmuntai]

listen to how to pruning ornamental plants ❤️

[@GardenNotes]

🙏🏻

[@tenderodolls6343]

Good job. Can it be pruned February?

[@GardenNotes]

I would not prune if there is still chance of frost. Other than that, Spring is always a good time to prune except for flowering shrubs that blooms on old wood. I do pruning year round, whenever I can get around to (time wise and physical accessible-wise) & weather permitting! Enjoy your pruning! I find it both soothing (during) and rewarding (after).💪🏻💪🏻

[@tenderodolls6343]

@@GardenNotes thank for your reply. I also enjoy pruning. I hope the frosty days have passed.