How to Trim Shrubs in a Corkscrew Pattern
- 1). Be certain there is only 1 leader, or top stem, on the tree or bush. If there is more than 1 leader, cut back the ones you don't want to use.
- 2). Secure tape or ribbon to the leader at the top of the tree. Wrap the tape or ribbon around the tree in a spiral pattern from top to bottom. Step back and look at your spiral design and adjust, if necessary.
- 3). Begin to carefully prune away branches following the shape you've created with the tape. Use pruning shears and trim no more than 3 inches at a time.
- 4). Remove the tape once the shape is well defined and clean up the area you've just carved out, which will further define the shape.
- 5). Prune the remainder of the tree back 1/2 inch or so with hedge clippers to clean up the rest of the tree.
- 6). Prune any new growth and continue to shape the spiral throughout the growing season. Protect from direct sunlight for a few weeks immediately after trimming.
