Hollies are normally pruned to maintain shape or to remove unsightly growth. ... Don't remove lower limbs of English holly. Instead, allow them to branch to the ground. If holly bushes require some major rejuvenation, however, they can be cut to the ground; again, this should be done during winter dormancy.

When should you trim hollies?

So for best outcome and to ensure your hollies aren't unduly stressed, wait until late winter or early spring — just as the plant breaks dormancy — before you do any major downsizing. By waiting till your hollies are about to begin active growth, you'll also avoid several months of a skeleton appearance.

How much can you cut back holly bushes?

Holly hedges may need trimming anywhere from once per week to once per month, depending in the growth rate of the plant and the preferences of each gardener. Typically, after 2 to 4 inches of new growth has occurred, the shrubs are sheared again. Cutting back a holly bush in this way is completely benign.