Arborvitaes are hardy plants. They can handle some pruning, but new growth won’t come from old wood. If you cut the branches back beyond the ends, you may be disappointed that no new growth fills in.

How do you trim Arborvitaes that are too tall?

In terms of height: However far back you want to cut it, just cut it there. As long as it has foliage below that point you can work with it. Cut back or remove all bare wood. Lop or saw branches to end just above strong greenery (green bars in the drawing at right), or just above the branch that bears good foliage.

How do you shape an arborvitae tree?

To trim arborvitae properly, trim the terminal tips of the foliage. Make sure not to remove more than 30% of the tree’s foliage. Also make sure to only cut into green, young wood. Work in sections as you cut your tree to make less mistakes.