When And How To Trim Arborvitae Trees To Allow Light For Flower Beds

Question From: K. Ellenberger - Carnegie, Pennsylvania, United States
Q: I have two 30 foot arborvitae trees that are spreading out covering y flower beds. Will it harm the trees if I remove a few of the bottom branches to open up the area for my flowers? And when would be the best time to do that? Thanks

A: I would wait until the trees go dormant. It will not harm them to limb them up, but be sure to use sharp loppers and or a saw. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy