shrub pruning - Ask Extension
Hi, we have a very overgrown shrub that we want to prune back significantly. We do not know what it is.
Can you identify the shrub and advise us on...
Knowledgebase
shrub pruning #946953
Asked October 12, 2026, 3:03 PM EDT
Hi, we have a very overgrown shrub that we want to prune back significantly. We do not know what it is.
Can you identify the shrub and advise us on how much we can prune it back without killing it. Our goal would be to remove at least 18 inches with hopes that it would regrow leaves this coming spring.
Thanks for your help!
Dakota County Minnesota
Expert Response
The leaves appear to be a Lilac. Did it bloom this spring?
https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/lawns-and-landscapes-in-minnesota/trees-and-shrubs/lilacs
https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/syringa-vulgaris/
For pruning shrubs
https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/gardening-in-minnesota/pruning-trees-and-shrubs
If it is a Lilac, pruning now will remove next spring's blooms. It will grow new leaves, but it sets next year's buds right after blooming in May-June.
https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/lawns-and-landscapes-in-minnesota/trees-and-shrubs/lilacs
https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/syringa-vulgaris/
For pruning shrubs
https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/gardening-in-minnesota/pruning-trees-and-shrubs
If it is a Lilac, pruning now will remove next spring's blooms. It will grow new leaves, but it sets next year's buds right after blooming in May-June.
