One of the most popular evergreens in American landscapes is the yew (Taxus spp.). It will grow in sun or shade, it can be moved easily at almost any age, and it takes easily to pruning.

Nevertheless, new homeowners frequently are confronted with a solitary yew that has grown out-of-bounds, is misshapen and badly in need of some major surgery. This is best done in late winter to take advantage of the flush of new spring growth.

Taxus yew with fruit. The Botanical Garden

In restoring a yew, the aim is to achieve an open V-shape. Always proceed with caution: Beneath the lumpy blob of sheared foliage and congested twigs you will notice a thick trunk that breaks near ground level into a collection of muscular primary branches.

Prune out branches that grow at odd angles or cross into the center of the plant. Once you have determined a clear sense of the structure, remove those major branches that clutter or disfigure the yew's form.

Yew wood is dense (prized by English cabinetmakers for centuries), so you will need a sharp pruning saw to get through old major branches.

Begin with the thickest branch, severing it cleanly where it joins the trunk. On no account leave stubs - which will produce thick brushy sprouts.

After each cut, step back and assess your progress.

Once cluttering branches have been removed, light should be able to shine into the heart of the plant. At this point you are working on the interior of the plant, so ignore the growth at the ends of the branches.

A shaped branch and its twigs should resemble your arm and lightly cupped hand. Remember: you may have to wait a season or two for the shaved twigs to resume a normal pattern.

Whether or not you move your plant, a yew will appreciate evergreen fertilizer in the spring. Fertilize at half the strength recommended on the bag, since your plant is recovering from severe pruning.

Contact Tim Morehouse by Web site: www.getmoregarden.com; mail: c/o Cincinnati Enquirer. (If writing, enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope.)