Pittosporum (Kohuhu) Shaping & Pruning (Pittosporum tenuifolium)
Pittosporum, commonly known as Kohuhu, is a versatile and attractive shrub that can enhance the curb appeal of your property. Known for its glossy leaves and fragrant flowers, it’s a favorite among homeowners and property managers. However, to keep your Pittosporum looking its best, regular shaping and pruning are essential. This article will guide you through the process, offering practical steps, tools, and tips to ensure your Kohuhu thrives.
Our Approach
- Understanding Growth Habits: Knowing how Pittosporum grows will help you make informed pruning decisions.
- Timing Your Pruning: The right time to prune can significantly impact the health and aesthetics of your plant.
- Shaping for Aesthetic Appeal: Proper shaping techniques can enhance the beauty of your Kohuhu.
- Long-Term Maintenance: Regular care leads to fewer surprises and a healthier garden.
We’re a low-maintenance landscaping crew. Our goal is fewer problems between visits and less work for you.
Service Cadences
- Quarterly — spring/fall deep clean + two tune-ups
- Bi-Monthly — balanced care for most yards
- Monthly — high-visibility properties & rentals
What’s Included
- Initial Assessment: Evaluating the health and shape of your Kohuhu.
- Pruning Techniques: Techniques tailored to your plant’s growth stage.
- Shaping for Growth: Ensuring the plant maintains a desirable shape.
- Disposal of Debris: We’ll handle all the cuttings, leaving your yard clean.
- Follow-Up Care Tips: Guidance on how to care for your Pittosporum post-pruning.
Why It Matters
- Promotes Healthy Growth: Regular pruning helps avoid overcrowding and encourages new growth.
- Enhances Curb Appeal: A well-shaped Pittosporum adds visual interest and beauty to your landscape.
- Improves Air Circulation: Pruning allows for better airflow, reducing the risk of disease.
- Increases Sunlight Exposure: Properly pruned plants receive more sunlight, which is crucial for their health.
How It Works
- Quick Estimate: We can provide a quote through a photo/video assessment or an onsite visit, ensuring clear, upfront pricing.
- Set Your Schedule: Choose from quarterly, bi-monthly, or monthly services to suit your needs.
- Service Day: Our team will clear, prune, and edge your Kohuhu; we also offer optional mulch or gravel refreshes.
- Follow-Up: After service, we provide simple care tips and discuss any easy add-ons you might need.
Shaping and Pruning Your Pittosporum
Tools & Materials Needed
- Pruning Shears: For small branches and fine pruning.
- Loppers: For thicker branches that are too large for shears.
- Hand Saw: For larger cuts, if necessary.
- Gloves: To protect your hands from scratches and sap.
- Rake and Tarps: To collect and dispose of cuttings.
Steps to Prune Your Pittosporum
Choose the Right Time:
- Best Time to Prune: Late winter to early spring (before new growth starts) or after flowering in late summer.
- Avoid Pruning: During frost or extreme heat.
Assess the Plant:
- Look for dead, damaged, or diseased branches.
- Identify areas where the plant is overcrowded.
Start Pruning:
- Remove Dead or Diseased Wood: Cut back to healthy tissue.
- Thin Out Dense Areas: Remove 1/3 of the oldest stems to improve air circulation.
- Shape the Plant: Aim for a natural, rounded shape. Cut back growth to maintain size without over-pruning.
Final Touches:
- Clean up the area by raking up cuttings and debris.
- Dispose of the waste properly (check local yard waste regulations).
Cost Estimates
- DIY Pruning: Minimal cost if you already own tools; just time and effort.
- Professional Services: Ranges from $50 to $150 per hour, depending on the size of the plant and local labor rates.
Owner Benefits
- Safety: Regular maintenance reduces the risk of branches falling or becoming hazards.
- Curb Appeal: A well-maintained Kohuhu enhances the overall look of your property, potentially increasing its value.
- Drainage: Properly pruned plants allow for better water drainage, reducing risk of root rot.
- Maintenance Savings: Less frequent, more manageable growth means fewer resources spent on upkeep.
Why Choose Neat & Tidy
- Local crew that works clean and efficient.
- Licensed & insured for peace of mind.
- Upfront pricing — labor, hauling, and disposal included.
- On-time, respectful, detail-driven.
Ready for a yard that stays neat?
Call or text Neat & Tidy for a quick quote and a maintenance schedule that fits your place. We’ll keep it tidy—so you don’t have to. Contact Us:
neatandtidyseattle@gmail.com
206-538-9344
Mon–Sun: 9am-6pm
🔒 Licensed • Bonded • Insured.
