They induce side buds to sprout and can he used to alter the shape of the plant. Make the cut just above a healthy bud, pointing in the direction you want the branch to grow. Make cuts slanting to promote healing and prevent the collection of water on the cut. Thinning cuts remove entire branches at their junction with another branch or the trunk, reducing the number of interior limbs. This opens the plant to sunlight and air and can reduce overall size.
Most plants respond best to selective pruning-a combination of thinning and heading cuts.
This is healthier for the plant and gives a more natural appearance. Young growth produces more vigorous flowers, so each spring after flowering, remove one third of the oldest and tallest stems near ground level to encourage development of new stems. A natural shape is best for plants. If you must shear, make the hedge wider at the bottom and sides slanting. Thin out individual branches to open the plant to sunlight.