Question
Can Japanese Yews be cut back to near base in order to start over? Chicago area, typical yew growing as a border hedge. The plants are approx. 20 years old. The tips are fresh with new growth but the inner area is void of any green.I trim every spring to control growth.
Thank you

Answer
Ron,
It is common to rejuvenate Yews by cutting them back severly. It is recommended that you cut them back to between 12 and 24 inches above the soil. This will allow them to push out new growth.
This type of pruning can be done at any time of the year, but I would recommend doing it in the spring or late fall to avoid stressing the plants too much.
Good luck.
Ed Gulliksen