Question
I have an arborvitae bush - possibly a globe - that is 6'x6' and 4 1/2' tall.  It is an older bush with 3 main branches.  I would like to make this a smaller bush again.  This bush is located in the colder part of Iowa.  What is the best way to do this?

Answer
Shirley,
Arborvitae can take some drastic pruning, but they take a long time to recover from it.
I would recommend that you begin to cut it back grdually over the course of several years. This allows the plant to readjust to the smaller form. Take only about 3 to 4 inches with each trimming this will stimulate the plant to produce growth on the inside to compensate for the loss of its outer foliage.
Good luck.
Ed Gulliksen