Coppicing is an age-old practice in which a tree or shrub is cut to the ground or almost to the ground. This severe cutback stimulates the root system to produce abundant new growth, which often has larger, more colorful foliage. Coppicing is a useful method for controlling a tree or shrub’s size and shape, but the downside is that flowers are forfeited. The best time to coppice is in early spring, when you start to see tiny shoots on the stems. This is a sign that active growth is starting.

Vigorous growers can be cut back hard each spring

Certain shrubs and trees are naturals for coppicing, responding quickly with new and dramatic growth. For example, I can cut ‘Grace’ smokebush back to 1 foot above the ground each spring, and the new growth will mature to 10 feet by the end of summer. Yellow catalpa is another fast grower. If cut to about 2 feet above the ground, it will grow at least 8 feet tall and wide by the end of summer.

Cut slower-growing shrubs less severely

Shrubs that are unable to rebound quickly after heavy coppicing will benefit from a gentler pruning session. For example, ‘Golden Spirit’ and ‘Royal Purple’ smokebushes can only put out about 3 feet of new growth in a season, so it’s best to cut them back by just a few feet in spring. They respond to this light coppicing by pushing out larger and more brightly colored foliage than they would if they were left to grow naturally.

Some plants can be cut to the ground in either autumn or spring

I cut princess tree down to its stump in fall because I don’t want to look at its gangly bare branches all winter. This aggressive grower responds equally well to being coppiced in fall or spring and may also be trimmed back a bit in midseason if needed. Princess tree has invasive tendencies in warmer climates, but in this northern garden a yearly cutback is sufficient to prevent it from setting seed.

Laura Trowbridge is a garden designer based in Peterborough, New Hampshire.

Photo and illustrations: Carol Collins

Fine Gardening Recommended Products

Dewit 3-Piece Tool Gift Set with 3-Tine Cultivator, Forged Trowel and Forged Hand Fork

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Dimensions: 13.75" L x 2.75" W x 10.5" H; 2.1 lbs. 3-piece gift set includes the DeWit 3-Tine Cultivator, Forged Trowel and Forged Hand Fork. Ideal for the avid gardener in your life or for yourself! Perfect for planting, digging, aerating, cultivating, and weeding.

Buy at Amazon

Fiskars 28" Power-Lever Garden Bypass Lopper and Tree Trimmer

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

IDEAL BRANCH TRIMMER: Fiskars Power-Level Garden Bypass Lopper glides through branches up to 1.75" thick for easy cuts; works well for trimming tree branches to maintain your yard and garden and to encourage overall plant health and appearance. MAXIMUM POWER AND PRECISION: Low-friction blade coating makes smooth cuts, reduces gumming, and enhances rust resistance; non-slip grip handle allows for more control of clippers. LONG-LASTING AND RELIABLE: Steel blades stay sharp through heavy use and provide excellent durability for lasting value; Fiskars pruning shears and tools are built to last. QUALITY GARDEN TOOLS: Designed to help you cultivate a better garden, Fiskars garden and yard tools are equipped with smart technologies and award-winning, ergonomic features that make it easier and more enjoyable to transform your outdoor space. INCLUDES: 1 Fiskars Power-Lever Bypass Lopper; Full lifetime warranty.

Buy at Amazon

Flat Soaker Hose 75 150 FT for Garden Beds

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Consistent & Even Watering Drip Irrigation Hose: Makes use of a clog-resistant fabric cover recycled vinyl for consistent slow soaking seep throughout its entire length. Deliver water to the entire area that it covers. Only certain areas of your garden bed getting watered. For waste-free watering in garden beds and other tight spaces. Waters the base of the plants so less water-related leaf damage. Linkable Garden Soaker Hose For DIY Irrigation System: End to end connectable drip water hose, flexible versatile Above-ground or bury it below a up to 3-inch layer of mulch or soil; this fit with garden hose threads and come with rust resistant end caps that make it possible to connect multiple hoses and works well with timers. Maneuverability And 100% Environmentally Friendly Drip Hose: Double layer design PVC Covered With Extra-Strength Fabric material protect from sun damage than rubber weeping hose; ensure the longevity of the soaker hose, which is ideal for you using it regularly through all seasons in your garden. Made of 100% environmentally friendly recycled vinyl, pass CA65 test, water is safe for ground which makes it perfect for use with vegetables, herbs, and other edible plants. Easy To Store Flat Soaker Hose: This irrigation drip hose flat design is kink-resistant, lies flat makes it a breeze to roll up and store for next season.The flat shape also makes it simple to snake under existing plant growth. One-Year Warranty on Flat Soaker Hoses: Ensure a water pressure of 40-90 psi for best results—hot water is not suitable.

Buy at Amazon