Japanese yew

Water Japanese yews only when the soil is dry to the touch. Drought tolerant, this plant species can go for long periods without water, especially in the late fall and winter. Be sure to not over-water your Japanese yew as that can lead to root rot. During the spring and summer months, water thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch. Water until the soil is evenly moist with water coming out of the drainage holes in the bottom of the container and then wait until the soil is again dry to the touch before watering again.

Japanese yew needs at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, and should be placed in an area where it will receive both morning and afternoon sun if possible. The morning sun helps the plant warm its leaves in the morning, while the afternoon sun helps to keep the leaves from wilting in the heat of the afternoon. Be sure to protect the plant from strong, midday sun, which can quickly burn its delicate needles.

This Japanese yew variety should be lightly pruned every year in March or early April, just as new growth is beginning to appear. Pruning should include removing any dead, broken or diseased branches, and any crossing branches should be cut back to prevent rubbing and damage. Also, branches growing straight up or straight down should be pruned back to create a more open and airy canopy. Finally, the same stems should not be aggressively pruned in subsequent years as this will weaken the plant and lead to dieback.