My neighbors have huge burning bushes (about 12' tall) planted about 3' away from my chain link fence. Although the bushes are beautiful, they have become a nuisance -- extending at least six feet into my yard, making it difficult to mow and maintain the fence line. I plan to ask the new owners of the house if I can trim them back. What time of year should I do this? How far back can I prune without damaging the bushes? Thank you.

Hi Jean, Generally we woudl prune these in late winter early spring (Feb-March) I would suggest cutting back 1-2 feet over the next couple years till they are more inbounds. ideally the neighbor would do the same on their side. be aware if it remains large on the other sides it will probably thin out until your side has very few leaves because the rest of the shrub is shading it. good luck. sandy