Arrowwood Viburnum (Viburnum dentatum) is a versatile, deciduous shrub valued in landscapes for its adaptability and visual appeal. This native plant features clusters of white flowers in spring, followed by dark blue berries that support local wildlife. Its dense foliage and upright, rounded form make it suitable for hedges, screens, or as a stand-alone specimen. Proper pruning maintains its health, encourages vigorous growth, and preserves its natural beauty.
Why Prune Arrowwood Viburnum
Pruning Arrowwood Viburnum improves its health. Removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches prevents pathogen and pest spread, directing energy to healthy growth. Strategic pruning also promotes better air circulation, reducing fungal disease risk. Shaping maintains size and form, while thinning encourages more abundant flowering and fruit.
When to Prune Arrowwood Viburnum
Major structural pruning is best in late winter or early spring, before new growth. This allows quick recovery and minimizes stress before the active growing season. Since Arrowwood Viburnum flowers and fruits on old wood, pruning too late in spring or summer can reduce the display. However, dead, diseased, or broken branches can be removed at any time.
How to Prune Arrowwood Viburnum
Essential Pruning Tools
For clean, effective pruning, use the right tools. Hand pruners cut branches up to 1/2 inch. Loppers provide leverage for branches up to 1.5 to 2 inches thick. For larger, older branches, a pruning saw ensures a smooth cut. Always ensure tools are sharp and clean to prevent tearing and disease.
Pruning Techniques
First, remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches, cutting them to healthy wood or their origin. Identify these by their discolored or brittle appearance. Next, make thinning cuts by removing entire branches back to the main stem or a larger side branch. This improves light penetration and air circulation, supporting plant vigor.
For shaping and size control, use heading cuts. These involve cutting a branch back to an outward-facing bud or a side branch, encouraging bushier growth and directing development.
If overgrown, rejuvenation pruning can revitalize the shrub. This involves removing about one-third of the oldest, thickest stems at ground level each year over three years. This gradual process stimulates new, vigorous shoots from the base, renewing the shrub’s structure.
Post-Pruning Care
After pruning, provide care to aid recovery. Water the shrub deeply to rehydrate and support healing. Apply a 2 to 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it a few inches from the trunk, to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Monitor the shrub for new growth or stress indicators.