Don’t Be Afraid to Prune Sunshine Ligustrum This Hard

My Sunshine Ligustrum has gotten much bigger than the typical 4–6 feet—and it’s officially outgrown its space. So today, I’m giving it a pretty substantial pruning and taking you through exactly how I decide what to cut and why. If you're nervous about pruning an overgrown shrub, this one is for you. As I work, I'll show you how I reduce the height and width, encourage new branching, remove bare growth, open up the interior of the shrub to allow more sunlight, and shape it without giving it the formal, manicured look I don't particularly want in my garden. By the time I'm finished, this Sunshine Ligustrum looks considerably thinner—but I'm not worried about it. I prune this shrub hard every year, and it reliably fills back in beautifully. One of the things I love about pruning Sunshine Ligustrum is that you don't have to overthink every cut. Keep the plant contained in the space you want it, work your way in gradually, and don't be afraid to prune. And Anthony is joining me behind the camera for this one! Having a second set of eyes definitely comes in handy. 😊 🌿 Chapters: 0:00 – Meet Anthony 0:13 – My Sunshine Ligustrum Outgrew Its Space 0:30 – How to Prune Sunshine Ligustrum & Choose Your Cuts 10:06 – The Finished Sunshine Ligustrum What shrub in your garden has gotten bigger than you ever expected? Let me know in the comments! Subscribe to Rooted & Refined for practical gardening projects, real-time gardening decisions, and a little perspective along the way.